Article: How to Create Authentic Experiences for Students Studying Abroad

From http://asiasociety.org/education/chinese-language-initiatives/how-create-authentic-experiences-students-studying-abroad

How to Create Authentic Experiences for Students Studying Abroad
by Jeff Wang

“Authentic” is a genuine learning experience, not a simple representation of the destination that doesn’t require deeper investigation. In the case of designing travel programs to China, it is both futile and counterproductive if one tries to present a “real China”—a country geographically as expansive, and in many ways, no less culturally diverse than Europe. One may try to focus on the glorious past of the Great Wall, the Terra Cotta Warriors, or on the shining present of Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, or on the neglected such as ethnic minorities and migrant workers. All of these aspects are real and relevant in understanding present day China, but not one alone is a true representation. An authentic experience is categorically not about being presented a certain aspect of a country or a people. This applies to just about any destination no matter how monolithic we may think it is.

Read more to find out Mr. Wang’s recommendations for putting your students into a mindset to learn while abroad at http://asiasociety.org/education/chinese-language-initiatives/how-create-authentic-experiences-students-studying-abroad