From Busan, South Korea, to Montclair, NJ: CEEL Strengthens Educational Exchange Partnership
Posted in: Announcements, College News and Events, College Spotlight, Homepage News and Events, Teacher Education, Teacher Education Spotlights
The College for Education and Engaged Learning (CEEL) welcomed 12 students and one faculty member from Busan National University in South Korea for a cultural immersion and teaching experience, giving them exposure to U.S. classrooms and insight into American culture.
Initiated by Drs. Jesse Ha and Minkyung Choi, Department of Teaching and Learning, and coordinated by Marilyn Davis, Director of the Center for Education, Innovation & Strategic Partnerships (CEISP), this program was developed following an initial visit from Busan students and educators earlier in 2025.
This international collaboration led to the creation of the Collective for English Language and American Culture, which, this summer, hosted teacher education majors from South Korea at Montclair for a four-week program.
About the Collective for English Language and American Culture
The visiting students were future educators preparing for careers in Korea and beyond. During their four-week stay at Montclair State University, they engaged in English language immersion and reflective practice, observed and taught in the Summer Literacy Enrichment Program and epiSTEMic Summer STEM camp, and collaborated with U.S.-based educators.
They experienced U.S. classrooms, including the Ben Samuels Children’s Center, to observe inclusive and culturally responsive teaching methods, gaining an understanding of American education. The students also attended lectures led by Drs. Erik Jacobson and Fernando Naiditch participated in structured reflection sessions and practiced English immersion skills through dedicated workshops.
Exploring Montclair and Beyond
The students experienced life in residence halls at Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, navigating transportation from Bloomfield, NJ, to Montclair, NJ. They toured the Montclair State University campus and visited the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center, which promotes values like respect, perseverance, sportsmanship, and excellence through inclusive, culturally diverse sports-based educational exhibits and programs.
Additionally, they received a tour of New York City and a trip to Washington, D.C., led by Dr. Helenrose Fives, to further enrich their learning experience. These experiences helped them navigate travel to both cities, build friendships, and connect with Montclair faculty and staff.
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