Excell Daguinotan

Meet Excell Daguinotan from the Philippines

‍

Can you share an example of a successful cultural exchange activity or project that you've implemented in your classroom?

One of the cultural exchange activities I made is Parol Making. Introducing the tradition of creating Parol or Filipino Christmas Lanterns to 4th-grade American students serves as a wonderful way to embrace diversity and encourage cultural understanding within the school community. Through participation in this activity, students not only gain insight into the cultural heritage of the Philippines but also cultivate a deeper respect for the customs of others.

Can you give any tips for aspiring cultural exchange teachers?

Embarking on a journey as a cultural exchange teacher is a remarkable opportunity to foster cross-cultural understanding and enrich the educational experience for both students and educators. Aspiring cultural exchange teachers can benefit from several tips to navigate this unique teaching role effectively.

Firstly, embrace cultural immersion by actively learning about the local customs, traditions, and educational practices of the host country. Engaging with the community and fellow educators can provide valuable insights into the cultural context in which you will be teaching. Secondly, establish a strong support network. Connecting with other cultural exchange teachers, local educators, and school staff can offer guidance, support, and a sense of community. Collaborating with colleagues can provide valuable insights and support in navigating the challenges of teaching in a new cultural environment. Additionally, prioritize self-care and well-being. Moving to a new country and adapting to a different educational system can be demanding. It's important to maintain a healthy work-life balance, seek support when needed, and prioritize personal well-being. Furthermore, aspiring cultural exchange teachers should approach their role with an open mind, flexibility, and a willingness to learn. Embracing new teaching methods, staying updated on educational practices, and effectively communicating with students, colleagues, and administrators are essential for success in this unique teaching role.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in participating in a cultural exchange program for teachers?

One of the most important lessons I've learned in participating in a cultural exchange program for teachers is the resilience and adaptability that comes with teaching in an unfamiliar place and culture. My experience teaching in the Huron School District for 4 years has been a significant challenge, particularly in working with students from diverse countries with varying cultural backgrounds and languages. This experience has taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of seeking support from school staff and parents to overcome these challenges.

This experience has underscored the importance of empathy, flexibility, and the willingness to step outside of my comfort zone as an educator. It has also highlighted the transformative impact of creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment that celebrates the richness of cultural diversity. Overall, my participation in the cultural exchange program has taught me that while teaching in an unfamiliar place and culture may be challenging, it also presents an opportunity for personal and professional growth, and the chance to positively impact the lives of students from diverse backgrounds.

‍