Developing a critical approach to student preparation for international mobility experiences: moving beyond the practical

This presentation addresses the issue of criticality in student preparation for international mobility experiences. Drawing on the findings from two OLT funded research projects the presentation will identify challenges in the process of preparing diverse student cohorts for intercultural learning in diverse settings, and discuss the importance of a critically informed approach to this preparation. Critical preparation goes beyond the practicalities of travel and encourages students to engage with complex concepts such as racism, imperialism and privilege. An example of a critically oriented preparation process will be provided, illustrated with case studies and practice examples. The speakers will present an eBook which has been developed as a resource for staff and students preparing for international study experiences. This practical resource adopts a critical approach to supporting international mobility preparation through the engaging presentation of key conceptual material, supported by the voices of experienced practitioners and students involved in international mobility.