This qualitative case study sought to explore changes in the perceptions of second stage (years 4-10) school based agricultural education teachers (SBAE) following a professional development experience in Ecuador. Experiential learning was utilized as a theoretical lens and the model of teacher change as an operationalized conceptual framework. Semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted, and transcripts analyzed for thematic content. Findings elucidated three emergent themes: change in classroom practices; change in personal and professional pursuits; and change in perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes. As a result of the experience, misconceptions were dispelled, new understandings of agriculture and natural resources were developed, confidence was increased, and a desire for more global engagement was communicated. Teachers expressed their desire to be more inclusive, encourage global engagement and citizenship among their students, and integrate more global concepts within their teaching practices. The findings have implications for the importance of holistic approaches to teacher development through international experiential learning, rather than just a focus on classroom teaching practices. To add to our findings, similar research with other teachers beyond second stage should be conducted. Also, research exploring the influence of international development activities on career commitment should be conducted.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2025 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.