Monday, July 6, 2009
Photo Story of memories
The pics in my Photo Story represent the overall theme of the memories that will last a lifetime. Unfortunately, the file is too large for this forum. Email me at jamie_britt@pender.k12.nc.us and I will send it to you via email or check my facebook page. Sorry for the confusion and thank you all again for following me through my journey.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Final Reflections about S. Africa
Travel is the means to open eyes to situations similar, yet so different. While many of the political issues, student numbers, and lack of resource problems are very similar on paper, only a true first hand perspective can truly open the eyes of the beholder. Just because there may be similar numbers and financial issues present at a school, it is something completely different to see students who come to school with nothing and having nothing. For example, each student at Stephen Mazungula has to bring his or her own spoon and bowl in order to receive a meal of beans and water at school. The hunger in their heart drives desire for food and so much more. North Carolina definitely has some of the same educational factors as South Africa; however, the depth this hunger has penetrated within these students cuts far deeper than I have ever before experienced.
The number one factor that I have learned is that educators in America definitely take our situation for granted. I now realize how truly blessed we are in the United States. I would hate to be stuck in a school system with no accountability for money, teaching degrees, supplies, and more.
• Because of the strange process and variety of possible ways a “teacher” could become “qualified to teach” in the past, it is somewhat difficult to know who has actually received proper teacher training from a university. However, it is very easy to recognize official qualifications when actually talking to individual teachers and administrators at each school. That sparkle of desire for knowledge was present at each school.
• There is no governing board to oversee which “professionals” are considered “qualified or highly qualified.”
• Although some schools do receive money from the government, it is possible for the leadership at individual schools misallocate funds.
• It is up to individual schools who do accept fees from parents to disseminate those funds however they deem necessary. For example, at Beamont, the administrators use both fundraising and student fees to supplement teacher pay. That is, they lower student to teacher ratios by hiring more teachers with these funds.
“Equity” is not always equal.
• Both Gray and Gqebera were considered to be “Model C” schools due to paperwork and lack of government probing/leadership at the school.
• Although a school may not be considered segregated, it still is. If a school like Beaumont or Gray only accepts students whose parents can pay a fee of 800 or 1000 rand per year, then there is a huge population of blacks who will not be able to attend the school.
• Technological advancements on paper and maybe even in person won’t always equal educational advancements. Along with computers must come proper training, follow-through, repair technicians, and continued perseverance from all stakeholders.
• It is not enough to throw money into a school without change and innovation regarding educational leaders.
• At each high school visited, the principals said, “I would show you the library, but it is just an empty room.”
Leadership in schools can make or break any situation.
• Peer educators can often accomplish more with troubled teens than even the best teachers or administration trained to counsel.
• The principal and teachers at Gqebera seemed very negative and did not do anything to clean up the messes left from recent burglaries and a fire in December.
• The Human Dignity Center is run by a woman who is 27 years old, yet was a perfect exemplar of humanity and kindness.
• Ms. Elephant at Kama Primary was very motivating and led a successful school. The teachers respected her and took pride in the school more than any other school I saw. Her Grade R (like our Kindergarten) students were even going on a field trip.
Patriotism is a refreshing and powerful tool in any setting.
• We heard the National Anthem a total of four times while visiting schools.
• Peer educators at Lungisa discussed the unification of S. Africa and their pride in democracy as well as Nelson Mandela and their own personal humble beginnings. The parallelism of the young students and the young country bursting with optimism and pride did more than just entertain our group.
• The Red Location Museum is yet another example.
Motivation that comes from within is far stronger than any extrinsic motivator.
• Students at Lungisa decided to get together on a Sunday afternoon in a playground outside of the school in order to put together a two hour skit, speech, and song for our benefit. No credit or grades were associated with this gesture.
• A 4th grade student at Emafini Primary said, “If you are going to dream, dream big.”
Education really is power.
• Pride about having high scores thrived in most schools visited through a special vest given to the top student as well as opportunities to speak in class and organize events.
• The peer educators at Lungisa led an awesome skit, speech, and sharing circle.
• High school students attend school less for socialization and more for the information they need to go to a university and get out of the township.
• No food is offered to high school students in school.
Value is negotiable and varies from stakeholder to stakeholder.
• Edelmira actually taught me how to bargain while we were in Port Elizabeth. I then got to use my new “skill” when we were in Cape Town.
• The reason some students come to school is for a good, hot meal as well as the learning.
• Responsibility for one’s own property comes with stronger desires for basic needs such as food and water. At Stephen Mazungula, each student had to bring his or her own bowl and spoon each day in order to receive food. They also had to wash these utensils and remember them again the next day.
“You can only shed so many tears.” However, it is not the tears that have the power to change one’s situation in life. Therefore, it is only through innovation and change that one can raise above and beyond poverty.
• It is not enough to feel sorry for poverty-stricken families. A peer educator said this quote and really meant it. He spends his breaks and lunch hour helping counsel troubled students to fight STD’s, drugs, and other teenage troubles.
Even with diversity and unity mottos, it is still possible for misunderstandings to arise and stereotypes to prevail.
• A teacher at Stephen Mazungula said “Wow. You are all from North Carolina? I thought only black people lived there.”
When it comes to the arts, especially song, we all sing in a common language. It is not the words, but the power behind the voice that tells a story and sparks the spirit.
• We heard songs from the learners at every school except Gqebera High School.
• On the Robben Island bus tour, Asian tourists asked the tour guide to sing a song in Xhosa. Although her ability to sing wasn’t the best, her voice penetrated the entire bus and spread the feeling of strength and beauty.
• The power and strength of the song and dance at the Walmer Township dinner definitely accomplished more than just “telling” their sorrowful story of poverty to us.
The number one factor that I have learned is that educators in America definitely take our situation for granted. I now realize how truly blessed we are in the United States. I would hate to be stuck in a school system with no accountability for money, teaching degrees, supplies, and more.
• Because of the strange process and variety of possible ways a “teacher” could become “qualified to teach” in the past, it is somewhat difficult to know who has actually received proper teacher training from a university. However, it is very easy to recognize official qualifications when actually talking to individual teachers and administrators at each school. That sparkle of desire for knowledge was present at each school.
• There is no governing board to oversee which “professionals” are considered “qualified or highly qualified.”
• Although some schools do receive money from the government, it is possible for the leadership at individual schools misallocate funds.
• It is up to individual schools who do accept fees from parents to disseminate those funds however they deem necessary. For example, at Beamont, the administrators use both fundraising and student fees to supplement teacher pay. That is, they lower student to teacher ratios by hiring more teachers with these funds.
“Equity” is not always equal.
• Both Gray and Gqebera were considered to be “Model C” schools due to paperwork and lack of government probing/leadership at the school.
• Although a school may not be considered segregated, it still is. If a school like Beaumont or Gray only accepts students whose parents can pay a fee of 800 or 1000 rand per year, then there is a huge population of blacks who will not be able to attend the school.
• Technological advancements on paper and maybe even in person won’t always equal educational advancements. Along with computers must come proper training, follow-through, repair technicians, and continued perseverance from all stakeholders.
• It is not enough to throw money into a school without change and innovation regarding educational leaders.
• At each high school visited, the principals said, “I would show you the library, but it is just an empty room.”
Leadership in schools can make or break any situation.
• Peer educators can often accomplish more with troubled teens than even the best teachers or administration trained to counsel.
• The principal and teachers at Gqebera seemed very negative and did not do anything to clean up the messes left from recent burglaries and a fire in December.
• The Human Dignity Center is run by a woman who is 27 years old, yet was a perfect exemplar of humanity and kindness.
• Ms. Elephant at Kama Primary was very motivating and led a successful school. The teachers respected her and took pride in the school more than any other school I saw. Her Grade R (like our Kindergarten) students were even going on a field trip.
Patriotism is a refreshing and powerful tool in any setting.
• We heard the National Anthem a total of four times while visiting schools.
• Peer educators at Lungisa discussed the unification of S. Africa and their pride in democracy as well as Nelson Mandela and their own personal humble beginnings. The parallelism of the young students and the young country bursting with optimism and pride did more than just entertain our group.
• The Red Location Museum is yet another example.
Motivation that comes from within is far stronger than any extrinsic motivator.
• Students at Lungisa decided to get together on a Sunday afternoon in a playground outside of the school in order to put together a two hour skit, speech, and song for our benefit. No credit or grades were associated with this gesture.
• A 4th grade student at Emafini Primary said, “If you are going to dream, dream big.”
Education really is power.
• Pride about having high scores thrived in most schools visited through a special vest given to the top student as well as opportunities to speak in class and organize events.
• The peer educators at Lungisa led an awesome skit, speech, and sharing circle.
• High school students attend school less for socialization and more for the information they need to go to a university and get out of the township.
• No food is offered to high school students in school.
Value is negotiable and varies from stakeholder to stakeholder.
• Edelmira actually taught me how to bargain while we were in Port Elizabeth. I then got to use my new “skill” when we were in Cape Town.
• The reason some students come to school is for a good, hot meal as well as the learning.
• Responsibility for one’s own property comes with stronger desires for basic needs such as food and water. At Stephen Mazungula, each student had to bring his or her own bowl and spoon each day in order to receive food. They also had to wash these utensils and remember them again the next day.
“You can only shed so many tears.” However, it is not the tears that have the power to change one’s situation in life. Therefore, it is only through innovation and change that one can raise above and beyond poverty.
• It is not enough to feel sorry for poverty-stricken families. A peer educator said this quote and really meant it. He spends his breaks and lunch hour helping counsel troubled students to fight STD’s, drugs, and other teenage troubles.
Even with diversity and unity mottos, it is still possible for misunderstandings to arise and stereotypes to prevail.
• A teacher at Stephen Mazungula said “Wow. You are all from North Carolina? I thought only black people lived there.”
When it comes to the arts, especially song, we all sing in a common language. It is not the words, but the power behind the voice that tells a story and sparks the spirit.
• We heard songs from the learners at every school except Gqebera High School.
• On the Robben Island bus tour, Asian tourists asked the tour guide to sing a song in Xhosa. Although her ability to sing wasn’t the best, her voice penetrated the entire bus and spread the feeling of strength and beauty.
• The power and strength of the song and dance at the Walmer Township dinner definitely accomplished more than just “telling” their sorrowful story of poverty to us.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Officially "back home"
Well, I will continue to update this blog for a while as I uncover more pictures, videos, and reflections from the trip. I will soon begin the next phase of assignments which will include major "takeaways" from the trip with some specific examples as well as the presentations for our myriad audiences. The latter will most likely include a Photo Story with even more pictures from the trip which I have not yet shared due to MB restrictuions and the choppy internet experienced throughout the trip. So, please stay tuned as I continue to recoup from the long plane ride and gain my bearings on when I am supposed to be awake and not sleeping ;) Thank you all for so diligently following my travels. I will not soon forget my experiences, my colleagues, or my newfound knowledge.
Thanks Vernon
Throughout the entire trip, Vernon (and his wife Leanne as well as two young children) often accompanied us on our daily vists/adventures. This was extremely helpful during our 10 hour drive from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town and the final voyage to the airport. Thanks Vernon for all your help!
Farewell dinner
For our last and final dinner in South Africa, we elected to dine at an authentic South African cousine called Caribou's. Everyone was present except for Pam who had already eaten. Goodbye South Africa!!!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Two Oceans diving
Woohoo! Today was the greatest day ever! I got a chance to go diving with some Great White sharks and awesome turtles, fish, etc. I met some really fun people who went along and got some pretty decent pictures up close to these magnificent animals. The turtles are named "Yoshi" and "Wassabi." I had so much fun!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Robben Island
This island was the prison "home" of Nelson Mandela for 19 years. Our group took the 1 hour ferry ride to the museum where we had a 45 minute bus tour around the island. Some of the roads were washed away because of the recent bad weather, so our trip was cut a little short. The cell you see in one picture was the actual room where Nelson Mandela slept. There is also a limestone quarry where each of the prisoners worked as part of his/her punishment. Mandela also gave his famous speech there by the pile of rocks. There is a church, school, the four separate prison buildings, a leper graveyard, and several houses still on the island today. Today, the entire island makes up a "museum" where approximately 100 ex-prisoners and ex-guards work together to increase awareness about Robben Island. Overall, it was a very informative tour.
Views of Table Mountain
There were some more great views of the infamous Table Mountain from the ferry ride and once we actually got to Robben Island.
Awesome African penguins!
How cool are these? Real penguins! But, they only stand about a foot and a half tall. This was a little "bonus" for the day because I really had no idea I would get to see them in person and up close.
Beaumont Primary
Our final school visit was at Beaumont Primary School. This school was without a doubt the best school we have viewed thus far. The infrastructure is definitely in need of repairs, but the community involvement shows through strong parental duties, volunteer efforts, and overall student success. While the school is funded by the government, the learners at the school must pay fees which are mostly used to supplement teacher salaries in order to reduce class sizes and hire more teachers. It is a Christian-based school with a strong belief that God comes first. Each day even starts with a morning prayer. While the school is performing well and this was a different perspective of South African schools, it is still hard to believe that such vast differences in overall quality can be present within one nation.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Final destination
Well, we have finally arrived in Cape Town where we will remain for the remainder of our stay in South Africa. The view is of Table Mountain. We are hoping the weather will cooperate so that we might be able to take a cable car to the top and get a nice view of the city. So far, we have still seen shacks and poverty, but the city as a whole is beuatiful. The name of our new temporary "home" is Brenwin and it is located at the top of a steep hill.
Cosmos Guest House
We were only here for one night, but it was very enjoyable and warm. I wished we could have stayed longer! The room was spacious and it overlooked the ocean.
"Kids" at McDonalds
Along the way, we stopped for lunch at McDonalds. Kato and Chris decided to get lost in the slides on the playground. Hey - we have to have some fun sometimes.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Views from the ride
Honestly, the ride was much like taking a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway in our own North Carolina mountains, except for the fact that the ocean was always running alongside the highway. There was a storm last night and today with winds up to 40 MPH. We surely would have called it a tropical storm watch if we were home. Anyhow, we arrived safely and we are off to our final destination in just a few hours. The final school visit is today, so I will post more as soon as I have some steady internet.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Gqebera High School
This is by far the school in the worst condition we have seen. There was a fire in December and no one has cleaned up the rubble. Only one classroom in the whole school has electricity because of vandalism! It really looks like a prison and the teachers seem very pessimistic. They have recently gone from around 1000 learners to 352. What a big jump!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Port Elizabeth scenery
We are leaving Port Elizabeth in the wee hours of Wednesday morning. Dad asked for some pics of Port Elizabeth, so here goes... it's a very under-commercialized beachfront town. The one picture just shows one of the open- markets. The hillside housing picture represents what the majority of the homes look like. Some homes are nicer and some people just live in the shacks.
Red Location Museum
We weren't able to take pictures inside the museum, but I took a couple of the scene around it. It is a beautiful building dedicated to celebrating those people who helped end Aparteid in S. Africa. Just outside of the beautiful new building, kids were playing in poor neighborhoods on old mattresses. Very heart-wrenching scene!
Lungisa High School
We finally got to visit a high school. Roughly translated, Lungisa means "rising up to make things better" and that is just what this school is doing. I was very impressed with the leadership, both from the principal and the student leaders. The 11th grade students decided to put on a show of their own accord- no prompting from administration. They were all peer educators who helped act as a counselor to other students in need. These students did a wonderful job, too. They even practiced on Sunday to be ready for today. We need a program like this in the U.S. Then, the 12th graders we saw didn't even have to come to school today, yet they did because the teacher was behind and they wanted the information for Geography. I learned today that high school students are not offered a single meal all day. The students, grade 8-12, go to school for 6 hours without food. Amazing!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Zebra
These guys are very fast, but we were lucky to see them. On the horseback ride, we saw at least 20!
Addo Elephant Park...living up to its name
These are just a small percentage of the over 200 pictures I took this weekend! This first Addo post is dedicated to the awesome elephants. They look all that much more beautiful in their natural habitat! In the top picture, you can see the elephant herd surrounding our other rental car. They are really not afraid of cars in any way. How cool are these???
Horseback riding in Addo
This is day two of the Addo Elephant Park experience. Edel, Chris, and I went on an early morning sunrise horseback ride. We saw some amazing animals and truly felt "at one" with nature. The only problem is that it is difficult to take good pictures when you can't dismount the horse...and the horse keeps going and going...
The Human Dignity Center
This is a place for students, mostly orphans, to go and learn in a day care-like facility. It is a wonderful organization that needs a ton of help. We left all of the supplies we brought at this location. You can see in the eyes of these kids just how deprived and sad they are, yet they still come to learn, to sing, and to share their culture.
Stephen Mazungula Primary School
This is a traditional lunch at school for S. African students. They eat on the step and bring their own bowl and spoon each in order to be served. This school was relatively far advanced compared to most that we've seen so far.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Dinner at the Walmer Township
This was by far the best experience of the trip to date. The food and music was very authentic and the kids really did a great job. I have some great video to show when I get home.
Jeffrey's Bay beach
This is the home of huge surfing competitions- even in winter. The beach is called "Jeffrey's Bay" though I didn't learn why. It was neat because the mountains were in the background behind the big waves. I'm not sure I captured the whole effect, but you get the idea.
Kama Primary School
The kids were so cute! I even have a video of them singing! They were so into it!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Views on the side of the road
Some random goats hanging out in front of the library and the view on the side of the road.
Emafini Primary School
Pics of some of the kids. Yes, they are wearing uniforms. They were so well-behaved!
Poverty neighborhood
Some pics from the "township" we drove past near the school. Can you believe people live here? Check out the sheep head on the side of the road in the neighborhood!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
We're here
Hello all! I just wanted to make sure everyone knew that I have arrived safely in Port Elizabeth. It is absolutely beautiful. I am a little over-tired at the moment, but that should go away once I get some sleep tonight. Talk to everyone soon.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Jamie's S. Africa blog
Hello. My name is Jamie Britt and I will be traveling in South Africa from June 14th- 29th. Through this blog, I plan to identify some goals I have for the trip, keep a daily log of memories and event happenings, as well as record some overall impressions after the trip.
Some questions to consider before the trip...
What are my personal goals for the international internship?
Some obvious answers to this question include my family, friends, colleagues, and professors. In addition to these traditional audiences, I know that I will be able to share my experiences with future doctoral candidates and my students. While I know my experiences will impact me and my overall teaching, I think it will be important for me to share my first-hand impressions and deep connections to this poverty-stricken country with my students. I will share these experiences through a variety of technologies and media.
During the trip, I plan to jot notes in my journal blog centered around the following questions:
What is an informal sketch of the day’s itinerary?
Rough itinerary plan as of right now-
6/15/09- Arrive in Port Elizabeth
Check out this site (where we'll be staying): http://www.bayside-guesthouse.co.za/
We arrived just after 12 noon and settled a bit before dinner at 5:00. We're heading to the boardwalk to walk along the oceanfront before crashing.
6/16/09- Explore area, tour Red Location Museum, welcome reception
Well, we started the day with a great breakfast. Then, we drove around the markets, a few townships, and the Donkin area. Apparently, Donkin was a governor here and his wife Elizabeth died at age 28. Port Elizabeth, where we are currently staying, was then named in her honor. The bay is also referred to as Nelson Mandela Bay to locals. We are heading to a dinner at the house of Paul Webb, our host.
6/17/09- Emafini school visit, vistit with teachers/leaders at Emafini, Bayworld
Emafini was an interesting school to visit. The kids were very nice and loved the camera. They were very well-behaved and this is the last week of shool!!! They were even allowed to "tend" a fire and no one thought of misbehaving. Crazy! I got to give an oral reading exam to three 4th graders, though. They can read very well and I think they would have read every book in the classroom to me if I would have let them.
6/18/09- Emafini school visit, visit with teachers/change/NMMU projects, dinner in Walmer Township
We actually went to the KAMA Primary School today an dit was great! The teachers were so enthusiastic and the kids were very respectful! They love to sing and dance! Afterwards, we went to do some shopping at the Jeffrey's Bay...mor ebeach pics with the mountains in the background. We're off to the Walmer Township authentic African dinner and show tonight.
6/19/09- Explore/visit high school, Human Dignity Center, drive to Addo
We actually visited another primary school today. We got a chance to see the kids have their meal. They actually have to bring their own spoon and bowl in order to eat. The Human Dignity Center was definitely nt what I expected! It was a "school/daycare" for students many of whom are orphans. These kids looked so sad and in need. This place really made me feel guilty for all that we have. They even have a severe and profound handicapped section with students who really have exreme deformities like I had never seen before. it was very eye-opening to say the least.
6/20/09- Addo Elephant Park ;) Expect a ton of pics.
Check out this site: www.sanparks.org/parks/addo/default.php
Check out the pics! The night "safari" pictures really didn't turn out well, but we got to see a mother hyena with her cubs! The week-end was great and I saw more than expected. I have a ton more pics, but my MB are running low and I am filling the blog space. I'll show whoever is interested at a later date, though. I have some good ones of the Kudu
6/21/09- Addo, return in p.m. to Port Elizabeth
We are now safe and sound back in Port Elizabeth. This morning, we went horse back riding in the park and saw Eland for the first time, among other things. It is rather difficult to take pictures while riding a horse, but we tried! I now have the internet again, so expect more frequent updates.
6/22/09- School visit, visit with school leaders
We finally got to go see a high school! Finally, I can identify with the kids! I was very impressed with the overall curriculum at this school. The teachers were great and the peer educators were even better. They put on a show for use that they practiced all day yesterday. No teacher or administarator even asked them to do it. They were so well-spoken and intelligent! In the senior year, students do a total of 12 public speeches! What a great way to learn and share.
In the afternoon, we visited the Red Location Museum and learned about Aparteid in S. Africa. Unfortunately, we weren't allowed to take pictures while inside. Just outside the doors, kids were jumping on an old burned-up mattress and having a great time. I do have some pics of that, though. Such poverty!!!
6/23/09- School visit, meeting with NMMU faculty/sharing of common interests
The sunrise was a real dud due to a ton of clouds. However, the we went to another high school today called Gqebera and it was in the worst shape of all the schools we have visited. Only 1 room has electricity left in it because vandals have snuck in and torn the copper out to sell. One of the buildings was even burned to the ground in December and no one has cleaned up the wreckage. For the second day in a row, the principal can't show us a library because "it is an empty room with no books." This school was so poor. I'll post pictures later. The afternoon was nice because we finally got a chance to sit down at the university and discuss some "take-aways."
6/24/09- Cosmos Guest House- travel to Western Cape in Somerset West, shopping and sightseeing
10 Hour drive and no internet today- sorry
Check out this site: http://www.oakdene.co.za/
6/25/09- Visit Beaumont Primary until 2 p.m., drive to Cape Town
Check out this site: http://www.places.co.za/html/9347.html Awesome school to see. This was a Christian-based school that is an exemplar for what parental involvement can accomplish. There is really no comparison between this school and the others we have seen thus far. Dinner was good and Cape Town weather is starting to clear.
6/26/09- Cape Town- visit Robben Island
Well, we took a 1 hour ferry ride across choppy seas, but we finally made it to Robben Island for a 45 minute museum tour plus a 45 minute bus tour. Unfortunately, our visit was cut a little short due to road wash-outs. There has been quite a bit of rainy weather around here lately. Overall, the museum was very informative and as a bonus, I got to see African penguins- up close and personal.
6/27/09- Cape Town- Table Mountain? See Great Whites!
Well, I missed out on the group trip to the top of Table Mountain, but what I did get to do was diving with the Great Whites! This experience was truly once in a lifetime and beyond words. I saw so much more than the pictures even show. These predators were so calm and intriguing to watch in their natural habitat. Unfortunately, the water was only 18 degrees Celsius- approx. 66 degrees F. Despite that, it was an awesome dive and I met some very interesting people.
6/28/09- Depart from Cape Town- no pics or internet today. Sorry.
6/29/09- Arrive in Raleigh and back home ;) See everyone soon!
What cultural observations did I make today?
I learned that S. Africa claims 11 official languages. However, only English is considered the formal language of literacy. The end-of-year tests I saw had directions in both English and their native language. The native language is "generallyy Xhosa, pronounced "Ko-sah"
What did I observe today in terms of leadership styles, organizational systems, administrative processes or other educational practices?
Teachers in Africa are not afraid to leave their students alone in a room.
There is little to no accountability for resources and teacher preparedness in this country.
What is my most significant learning to date?
Oddly, this insight came from the my lunch box on the plane. According to South African Airlines, and the Afrikaans, "Travel teaches one how to see." What a perfect way to describe what we are doing here in South Africa! To give the Afrikaans fair credit: "Om te reis leer die mens om te sien."
Today's insght came from a sugar packet- "When we forgive someone, the knots are untied and the past is released."
Yet another insightful pack of sugar- "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are endless." -Mother Teresa
"Now is no time to think of what you do not have. Think of what you can do with what there is." - Ernest Hemingway
What have I affirmed about my current leadership practice(s)?
I do not process well when I am sleepy. ;)
It is very possible that I have been taking for granted that students have the bare necessities in which to attend school.
What have I challenged about my current leadership practice(s)?
From a very wise peer educator this morning, I realized that it is not enough to cry for someone else. You can only shed so many tears. It is only through change and innovation that we can make a difference. And it is only throug leadership that sustainable change can truly occur.
Any other reflections/unexpected events?
Sheep is apparently a delicious dish around here. We saw a sheep's head, complete with fur and blood being cooked on the side of the road!
Diving is S. Africa is really cold in the winter, but it is without a doubt worth it!!! Check out the pictures above.
Upon my return, I plan to address the following questions listed below:
What are the most important learning results that I found?
There were a ton of learning moments throughout this trip, both personally and professionally. The number one factor that I have learned is that educators in America definitely take our situation for granted. I now realize hoe truly blessed we are in the United States. I would hate to be stuck in a school system with no accountability for money, teaching degrees, supplies, and more.
How could the internship be improved in future years?
I really don't have too many suggestions for next year. It was a little difficult coming to S. Africa at the end of a term. Since the terms are separated by a three week break, I do wish that future groups could travel later in the summer. Perhaps this way, more participants would get to see "teaching" and not so much exam work. I would also like to change the weather for a couple of the days, but we can't have everything, can we?
Some questions to consider before the trip...
What are my personal goals for the international internship?
At this point, some of my personal goals include immersing myself in another culture on unfamiliar terms, visiting new areas which I may not ever see again, and seeing a new culture full of people I have only previously read about. I also hope to build some strong friendships and connections with my colleagues. On an entertainment basis, I am also looking forward to seeing the elephant park, visiting Robben Island, and, if weather permits, getting an up-close look at some Great White sharks.
What are my professional leadership goals for the international internship?
Professionally, I also have a goal of meeting new people and seeing new aspects of a culture in which I am unfamiliar. As a part of this, I intend to visit new school systems with an open mind so that I can be open to innovation and new ideas to use in my classroom and future leadership role(s). It will be amazing to obtain a first-hand account of successful classrooms and schools who do so much with so little.
What are aspects of the culture I particularly hope to observe and study during the trip?
Although it may be somewhat uncharacteristic, I am especially interested in African food. Beyond the food, I hope to gain knowledge of the African culture and traditions. I look forward to studying the way natives interact with tourists versus one another, the language/dialect differences, and respect, or lack there of, toward education and teachers.
What audiences will I share my experiences with upon my return?
Some obvious answers to this question include my family, friends, colleagues, and professors. In addition to these traditional audiences, I know that I will be able to share my experiences with future doctoral candidates and my students. While I know my experiences will impact me and my overall teaching, I think it will be important for me to share my first-hand impressions and deep connections to this poverty-stricken country with my students. I will share these experiences through a variety of technologies and media.
During the trip, I plan to jot notes in my journal blog centered around the following questions:
What is an informal sketch of the day’s itinerary?
Rough itinerary plan as of right now-
6/15/09- Arrive in Port Elizabeth
Check out this site (where we'll be staying): http://www.bayside-guesthouse.co.za/
We arrived just after 12 noon and settled a bit before dinner at 5:00. We're heading to the boardwalk to walk along the oceanfront before crashing.
6/16/09- Explore area, tour Red Location Museum, welcome reception
Well, we started the day with a great breakfast. Then, we drove around the markets, a few townships, and the Donkin area. Apparently, Donkin was a governor here and his wife Elizabeth died at age 28. Port Elizabeth, where we are currently staying, was then named in her honor. The bay is also referred to as Nelson Mandela Bay to locals. We are heading to a dinner at the house of Paul Webb, our host.
6/17/09- Emafini school visit, vistit with teachers/leaders at Emafini, Bayworld
Emafini was an interesting school to visit. The kids were very nice and loved the camera. They were very well-behaved and this is the last week of shool!!! They were even allowed to "tend" a fire and no one thought of misbehaving. Crazy! I got to give an oral reading exam to three 4th graders, though. They can read very well and I think they would have read every book in the classroom to me if I would have let them.
6/18/09- Emafini school visit, visit with teachers/change/NMMU projects, dinner in Walmer Township
We actually went to the KAMA Primary School today an dit was great! The teachers were so enthusiastic and the kids were very respectful! They love to sing and dance! Afterwards, we went to do some shopping at the Jeffrey's Bay...mor ebeach pics with the mountains in the background. We're off to the Walmer Township authentic African dinner and show tonight.
6/19/09- Explore/visit high school, Human Dignity Center, drive to Addo
We actually visited another primary school today. We got a chance to see the kids have their meal. They actually have to bring their own spoon and bowl in order to eat. The Human Dignity Center was definitely nt what I expected! It was a "school/daycare" for students many of whom are orphans. These kids looked so sad and in need. This place really made me feel guilty for all that we have. They even have a severe and profound handicapped section with students who really have exreme deformities like I had never seen before. it was very eye-opening to say the least.
6/20/09- Addo Elephant Park ;) Expect a ton of pics.
Check out this site: www.sanparks.org/parks/addo/default.php
Check out the pics! The night "safari" pictures really didn't turn out well, but we got to see a mother hyena with her cubs! The week-end was great and I saw more than expected. I have a ton more pics, but my MB are running low and I am filling the blog space. I'll show whoever is interested at a later date, though. I have some good ones of the Kudu
6/21/09- Addo, return in p.m. to Port Elizabeth
We are now safe and sound back in Port Elizabeth. This morning, we went horse back riding in the park and saw Eland for the first time, among other things. It is rather difficult to take pictures while riding a horse, but we tried! I now have the internet again, so expect more frequent updates.
6/22/09- School visit, visit with school leaders
We finally got to go see a high school! Finally, I can identify with the kids! I was very impressed with the overall curriculum at this school. The teachers were great and the peer educators were even better. They put on a show for use that they practiced all day yesterday. No teacher or administarator even asked them to do it. They were so well-spoken and intelligent! In the senior year, students do a total of 12 public speeches! What a great way to learn and share.
In the afternoon, we visited the Red Location Museum and learned about Aparteid in S. Africa. Unfortunately, we weren't allowed to take pictures while inside. Just outside the doors, kids were jumping on an old burned-up mattress and having a great time. I do have some pics of that, though. Such poverty!!!
6/23/09- School visit, meeting with NMMU faculty/sharing of common interests
The sunrise was a real dud due to a ton of clouds. However, the we went to another high school today called Gqebera and it was in the worst shape of all the schools we have visited. Only 1 room has electricity left in it because vandals have snuck in and torn the copper out to sell. One of the buildings was even burned to the ground in December and no one has cleaned up the wreckage. For the second day in a row, the principal can't show us a library because "it is an empty room with no books." This school was so poor. I'll post pictures later. The afternoon was nice because we finally got a chance to sit down at the university and discuss some "take-aways."
6/24/09- Cosmos Guest House- travel to Western Cape in Somerset West, shopping and sightseeing
10 Hour drive and no internet today- sorry
Check out this site: http://www.oakdene.co.za/
6/25/09- Visit Beaumont Primary until 2 p.m., drive to Cape Town
Check out this site: http://www.places.co.za/html/9347.html Awesome school to see. This was a Christian-based school that is an exemplar for what parental involvement can accomplish. There is really no comparison between this school and the others we have seen thus far. Dinner was good and Cape Town weather is starting to clear.
6/26/09- Cape Town- visit Robben Island
Well, we took a 1 hour ferry ride across choppy seas, but we finally made it to Robben Island for a 45 minute museum tour plus a 45 minute bus tour. Unfortunately, our visit was cut a little short due to road wash-outs. There has been quite a bit of rainy weather around here lately. Overall, the museum was very informative and as a bonus, I got to see African penguins- up close and personal.
6/27/09- Cape Town- Table Mountain? See Great Whites!
Well, I missed out on the group trip to the top of Table Mountain, but what I did get to do was diving with the Great Whites! This experience was truly once in a lifetime and beyond words. I saw so much more than the pictures even show. These predators were so calm and intriguing to watch in their natural habitat. Unfortunately, the water was only 18 degrees Celsius- approx. 66 degrees F. Despite that, it was an awesome dive and I met some very interesting people.
6/28/09- Depart from Cape Town- no pics or internet today. Sorry.
6/29/09- Arrive in Raleigh and back home ;) See everyone soon!
What cultural observations did I make today?
I learned that S. Africa claims 11 official languages. However, only English is considered the formal language of literacy. The end-of-year tests I saw had directions in both English and their native language. The native language is "generallyy Xhosa, pronounced "Ko-sah"
What did I observe today in terms of leadership styles, organizational systems, administrative processes or other educational practices?
Teachers in Africa are not afraid to leave their students alone in a room.
There is little to no accountability for resources and teacher preparedness in this country.
What is my most significant learning to date?
Oddly, this insight came from the my lunch box on the plane. According to South African Airlines, and the Afrikaans, "Travel teaches one how to see." What a perfect way to describe what we are doing here in South Africa! To give the Afrikaans fair credit: "Om te reis leer die mens om te sien."
Today's insght came from a sugar packet- "When we forgive someone, the knots are untied and the past is released."
Yet another insightful pack of sugar- "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are endless." -Mother Teresa
"Now is no time to think of what you do not have. Think of what you can do with what there is." - Ernest Hemingway
What have I affirmed about my current leadership practice(s)?
I do not process well when I am sleepy. ;)
It is very possible that I have been taking for granted that students have the bare necessities in which to attend school.
What have I challenged about my current leadership practice(s)?
From a very wise peer educator this morning, I realized that it is not enough to cry for someone else. You can only shed so many tears. It is only through change and innovation that we can make a difference. And it is only throug leadership that sustainable change can truly occur.
Any other reflections/unexpected events?
Sheep is apparently a delicious dish around here. We saw a sheep's head, complete with fur and blood being cooked on the side of the road!
Diving is S. Africa is really cold in the winter, but it is without a doubt worth it!!! Check out the pictures above.
Upon my return, I plan to address the following questions listed below:
What are the most important learning results that I found?
There were a ton of learning moments throughout this trip, both personally and professionally. The number one factor that I have learned is that educators in America definitely take our situation for granted. I now realize hoe truly blessed we are in the United States. I would hate to be stuck in a school system with no accountability for money, teaching degrees, supplies, and more.
How could the internship be improved in future years?
I really don't have too many suggestions for next year. It was a little difficult coming to S. Africa at the end of a term. Since the terms are separated by a three week break, I do wish that future groups could travel later in the summer. Perhaps this way, more participants would get to see "teaching" and not so much exam work. I would also like to change the weather for a couple of the days, but we can't have everything, can we?
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