International Journal of Humanities and Social Science

ISSN 2220-8488 (Print), 2221-0989 (Online)

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Original Research Article | Open Access | Peer Reviewed update icon Check for updates

Navigating Cross-Cultural Dilemmas in Teacher Preparation: Lived Experiences of an International Faculty Member in the US

Jamie Hsu Kim Email Qiang Cheng Email Shaoan Zhang Email
Abstract While existing research often centers on general faculty experiences, few studies explore how international faculty navigate classroom challenges and develop resilience through reflective practice. This qualitative single-case study investigates the lived experience of an international faculty member teaching in teacher education program at a U.S. research university. Guided by three research questions, the study examines the major difficulty he faced in preparing preservice teachers, the strategies he employed to construct resilience, and how this resilience influenced his identity development. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and blog reflections. Findings highlight persistent issues with teacher candidates’ professional dispositions as a central challenge. The participant drew on reflective practice to address these challenges, build resilience, and reshape his professional identity. The study underscores the critical role of reflection in connecting resilience to identity and affirms the importance of professional dispositions in teacher preparation. It also illustrates the unique contributions international faculty bring to teacher education.
Article History:
Received: 15 April 2025 | Accepted: 18 June 2025 | Published: 24 June 2025
Reviewer(s): Dr. Hennades Tabe, University of Johannesburg, South Africa; ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4910-8659; Phone: +27 71 776 0073.
Email: [email protected]
Dr. Muhammad Nadeem Anwar, Institute of Education, University of Sargodha, Pakistan; ORCID iD: https://orcid.org/0000-0001- 8414-5888; Phone: +92 336 775 0500
Email: [email protected]
Address for Correspondence: Qiang Cheng, Associate Professor of Elementary Education, Department of Teacher Education, The University of Mississippi, P.O. Box 1848, University, MS 38677.
[email protected]
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