From a podcast interview with Jon Stauff, a seasoned higher education professional with extensive international education experience and a Ph.D. in modern European history.

“Understanding the challenges of the faculty member is crucial. We need to respect what the faculty member brings to the table.”

Introduction

In this episode, Jon Stauff, an expert in international education and a senior international officer, discusses the faculty's undervalued role in international education and the importance of collaboration between faculty and the international education office.

Jon shares his experiences as a faculty member leading study abroad programs and highlights the impact that faculty can have on students’ global learning experiences. He emphasizes the need for faculty advocacy in promoting international education and the faculty's role in shaping the university's reputation and brand.

Key Takeaways

• Faculty play a crucial role in international education by providing expertise, curriculum integration, and on-the-ground guidance for study abroad programs.
• Collaboration between faculty and the international education office is essential for creating successful study abroad programs that align with learning objectives and maximize the impact of international experiences.
• Faculty advocacy is vital in promoting the importance of international education within the university and to external stakeholders, such as congressional representatives and grant funding agencies.
• Faculty bring authenticity, validation, and credibility to international education programs, enhancing the overall student experience and contributing to the university’s reputation.
• Recognizing and supporting faculty in their efforts to incorporate international education into their teaching, research, and professional development is important.

The Faculty’s Role in Study Abroad Programs

Faculty members are the linchpin of study abroad programs, as they bring their expertise and curriculum to international settings. They can create meaningful learning experiences that cannot be replicated in a traditional classroom setting. As Jon Stauff, a modern history professor and senior international officer, explains, faculty members serve as the laboratory for students, allowing them to apply their knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Jon shares his experience as a faculty member leading a study abroad program in Ireland. One student, who initially had little interest in the liberal arts, found his passion through an internship related to his business major. This experience deepened his understanding of Irish culture and history and set the course for his future career as an entrepreneur. This story highlights the transformative power of study abroad programs and the crucial role that faculty members play in facilitating these experiences.

Collaboration between Faculty and International Education Offices

Creating successful study abroad programs requires collaboration between faculty and international education offices. While faculty members bring their expertise and curriculum to the table, international education offices provide the necessary support and resources to ensure a smooth and impactful experience for students. This collaboration is crucial for addressing logistical challenges, such as travel arrangements and student safety, allowing faculty members to focus on the program's learning objectives.

Jon emphasizes the importance of international education offices in lightening the load for faculty members. By taking care of administrative tasks, such as processing invoices and ensuring student safety, international education offices allow faculty members to focus on creating meaningful learning experiences. This collaboration benefits faculty members and enhances the overall quality of study abroad programs.

Faculty as Advocates for International Education

Faculty members also advocate for international education within the university and the broader community. They can uniquely connect the learning outcomes of study abroad programs to the university’s reputation and the local economy. By showcasing faculty achievements and promoting their involvement in international education, universities can highlight the value of study-abroad programs and attract more students to participate.

Jon emphasizes the importance of faculty members in advocacy efforts for international education. They lend authenticity and validation to the cause, as they are on the front lines with the students. Faculty members can share their stories and experiences to demonstrate the impact of study abroad programs and the importance of global learning. By involving faculty members in conferences and professional development opportunities, universities can further amplify their voices and promote the value of international education.

Conclusion

Faculty members play a vital but often undervalued role in international education. They bring their expertise and curriculum to international settings, creating transformative student learning experiences. Collaboration between faculty and international education offices is essential for creating successful study abroad programs, as it allows faculty members to focus on the learning objectives. In contrast, international education offices provide the necessary support. Faculty members also advocate for international education, promoting its importance within the university and beyond. By recognizing and valuing the contributions of faculty members, universities can enhance the quality and impact of their study-abroad programs.

To catch the full interview with Jon, CLICK HERE.