How is the culture of the country are you teaching in reflected in the school? (class subjects, design, schedules, assessment)

            The most obvious reflection of the Italian culture is the “laid back” nature within the school setting. Class design reflects the more relaxed nature of not only the educational setting, but the prevalent culture within Italy. There is an emphasis on discussion within the classroom, taking the time to hear the ideas and thoughts of each individual student, even if the original timetable is deviated from. There is no clearly defined daily academic schedule for the students; the lessons are introduced at the commencement of each lesson. Compared to my past practicum placements where the academic schedule were verbally and visually displayed on a weekly and daily basis, explicitly stated to the learners. The emphasis of food and music within the Italian culture is also reflected within the school setting. During my initial lesson I introduced not only myself, but Boston College as well, and generalized topics regarding United States, but the students were more notably intrigued by the subtopics of food and music. When given the opportunity to ask questions to most frequent questions asked were those such as, “What is your favorite food?” or “What music do you listen to most?” When depicting the city of Boston, before delving into the history or highlights of the city, the students initially asked about the most famous food that can be found within the city. The genuine curiosity revolving around those specified topics were easily observed from not only the students, but also the teachers alike. The prevalence of food within the culture of Italy is a facet of the country that is easily identified based on the importance placed on not only the time spent at a meal, but the quality of the food being served. Whether the meal be lunch or dinner the social aspects of the time, along with the gastronomy are held in high regard for all ages.

            Exposing the students to North American culture has intermingled with the Italian culture reflected within the classroom, from academics to food to activities the students are eager to hear and immerse them in the information they are being exposed too. The students easily identify the differences, but they are more interested in making connections with the overlapping similarities between the varying cultures. The teachers I work with are also intrigued by the culture created when studying abroad of traveling to various countries and experiencing an influx of culture through the high volume of travel. The students and teachers not only want to hear about North American culture, but the culture of the countries that I have visited throughout my time abroad thus far.