DISTINGUISHED FULBRIGHT AWARDS IN TEACHING PROGRAM FOR INTERNATIONAL TEACHERS

Sponsored by the United States Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the Fulbright Program provides funding for highly accomplished international teachers to take part in an intensive professional development program for four months in the United States. The Institute of International Education (IIE) administers the Distinguished Fulbright Awards in Teaching Program on behalf of the U.S. Department of State.

Under the Distinguished Fulbright Awards in Teaching Program, international primary and secondary school teachers of any subject may apply. Primary and secondary level library media specialists, guidance counselors, Special Education coordinators and administrators who teach students at least fifty percent of their time may also apply for this professional development program to carry out a course of study for five months in the United States.

International participants will gather at a single U.S. university's College of Education which will provide a broad range of education classes and faculty support. Participants will enroll in advanced undergraduate or graduate level classes; design and complete a Capstone Project; observe, team teach and/or conduct seminars or workshops in local schools for host country teachers and students; and engage in other teaching related activities.  

Prior to arrival in the U.S., international teachers will take part in a web-based course led by host university staff to prepare them for arrival at the university. Once in the U.S., academic support will be provided by a host institution advisor who will support the international teacher and help contribute to the design and activities of the project. Upon returning home, participants will be expected to share the knowledge and experience gained on the program with teachers and students in their home schools and within their communities.

PROGRAM BENEFITS TO PARTICIPATING TEACHERS

As part of the program, Distinguished Fulbright Teachers:

• Design and carry out a Capstone Project overseas.  Projects may relate to the teacher’s content area, curriculum development, educational policy, standards or other key issues relevant to the home and host educational system abroad.
• Study and observe U.S. best practices in education;
• Share professional expertise with educators and students in the U.S.;
• Develop leadership skills and understanding of U.S. educational policy;
• Enhance their ability to work in diverse and multicultural environments.

PROGRAM BENEFITS TO INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES

Upon return, Distinguished Fulbright Teachers:

• Integrate international best practices in education in the home country classroom, school and community;
• Integrate Capstone Project findings into the home country classroom or school;
• Expand global and intercultural awareness of students and colleagues by sharing their Fulbright experience and infusing their experience into classroom content or curriculum;
• Develop partnerships and joint projects with schools and classrooms in the U.S.