Presentation Schedule
Learning Beyond Lectures: Cross-Cultural Graduate Student Engagement for Understanding Disability, Culture and Educational Systems in France and the U.S. (106726)
Session Chair: Pavan Antony
Wednesday, 17 June 2026 14:10
Session: Session 2
Room: Room 107 (1F)
Presentation Type:Oral Presentation
Traditional lecture-based instruction has long dominated higher education. However, school closures during the pandemic and rapid advancements in educational technology and artificial intelligences have accelerated the adoption of innovative instructional approaches. This session presents a cross-national collaborative teaching model developed by two professors in the United States and France to engage graduate students enrolled in teacher preparation programs. The purpose of this study was to examine how international virtual collaboration influences graduate students’ understanding of disability, culture, and higher education systems across national contexts. Students from both countries were randomly paired to participate in online discussions, engage in cross-cultural dialogue and professional reflection. A qualitative case study methodology was employed to capture student voices in both countries. Data included graduate student reflections based on cross cultural interviews, discussion transcripts, and course assignments completed by participants in the United States and France. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns related to cultural awareness, professional growth, and perceptions of disability and education. Findings revealed that students in both countries developed increased cultural sensitivity and a deeper understanding of the education system, disability issues, social, and policy frameworks. In addition, students reported heightened engagement and motivation to interact with international peers, as well as an expanded sense of professional identity as future educators. The presenters will share practical strategies for implementing similar international collaborations. This session highlights the value of global university partnerships and cross-cultural exchanges in preparing future educators to become globally competent professionals.
Authors:
Pavan Antony, Adelphi University, United States
Rachel Hazell-Roux, INSEL, France
Xiao-Lei Wang, Adelphi University, United States
About the Presenter(s)
Professor Pavan Antony is a University Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer at Adelphi University in United States
See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule
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