Ecuador: Chloe Bernards
Program: UW Education, Diversity and Community in the Galapagos Islands, Summer
Chloe’s Major: Elementary Education
What is the moment you are most proud of?
A moment that I am most proud of while abroad is connecting with students. I sought connection and collaboration with the students I got to meet. The school visits profoundly shaped the way that I view global education. Philosophies like Montessori’s or Vygotsky’s theories were intertwined in the buildings and programs. It was eye-opening to see those theories lived out beyond American education. Furthermore, I learned about the beauty of language, and how to connect with students that I didn’t speak the same language as. I further understand an “exchange of knowledge” and what it can look like to share cultures. This guides me in becoming the best educator I can be.
What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?
In this incredible experience, I learned about myself as a monolingual English speaker. Throughout the class, we examined the identities that we bring with us. I learned a lot about the way the Western world values English, and how it is viewed at the top of a hierarchy of other languages. The value of English was perpetuated in Quito and the Galapagos Islands when we were viewed as school visitors, not English teachers. This caused some discomfort in families because they wanted their children to learn as much English as possible. This is a perspective about English all over the world. I reflected on my view of language in America. In America, non-native English-speaking people are looked down upon for speaking “incorrect” English. In Ecuador, non-native Spanish-speaking people are looked up to because of their effort to speak Spanish. This variance in perspectives helped me understand the privilege and space I take up when I speak English.
As an aspiring global citizen, I feel invited to think about and attempt other languages. Specifically, as a teacher, it is important to try to speak and understand the students’ home language.
What is your advice for someone considering your program?
My advice for someone considering this program is to do it! I came into this program with minimal expectations. I said goodbye to the places and people I met with colorful, insightful, and reflective stories to bring into my personal and professional lives. I would advise you to be present in all of the experiences you get to be a part of and not to worry about asking questions. The journey is worth it!
What is your most memorable experience from your program?
The most memorable experience from this program was getting to know the Salasaka community in Ecuador. We were able to visit a school, Intiñan, and meet the community and children. The principal gave us a school tour and we shared a meal. The students were affectionate and a joy to be around. We gathered on their school grounds, four buildings with a playground and a patch of grass in the middle. We were surrounded by the Andes mountains and local family farms. It was beautiful to meet families and hear about their life. I particularly loved the principal’s tour because she was honest and thorough in describing the curriculum and program of the school. They were also gracious enough to include us in a summer solstice ceremony in which we were blessed by the shaman of the community. It was a unique example of a community that strengthened my understanding of global education.