What is LCTE?

Participant Selection has concluded and the LCTE 2020 program is full. Please consider applying for the 2021 program!

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Program Highlights

Visit culturally diverse European schools

Students have opportunities to visit progressive Dutch, German, and French schools as participant observers. Schools were chosen for their cultural diversity, opportunities for interactions with students and teachers, and potential for illuminating interesting comparisons to US schools. We will also spend time with Belgian and Dutch college students studying to be teachers at a university of applied sciences in Hasselt, Belgium and in Sittard, Netherlands.

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Learn about the world of International Schools

We have plans to visit International Schools in The Netherlands and Germany. Students can learn more about what International Schools are, what it is like to be an International School teacher, and how to get connected to the International School network to find a job.

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Become more proficient with educational technology

The students’ field experiences will be the basis for considering the core issues of this program: the intersection of learning, technology, and culture. Technologies such as digital photography and video, podcasts, and blogs will be used both as means to look more closely at phenomena related to learning and culture. Technology will also be central to representing and sharing ideas. By the end of the program, students will have greater proficiency at using a wide range of technologies and a deeper understanding of how technology can be used effectively by themselves and others.

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Live in beautiful, modern, cosmopolitan facilities

During the three weeks, students will live in Amsterdam, Maastricht, Paris, Dusseldorf (or Cologne) and Brussels. Most of the time will be spent in Maastricht, the oldest city in the Netherlands and home to one of the finest universities in The Netherlands. Maastricht University is in the scenic historic district of the city. 

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Experience Europe

This program offers students the opportunity to experience four countries: The Netherlands, France, Germany, and Belgium. All visits are made even more memorable because we will have a native guide and many opportunities to  spend time with teachers and students.

In addition, The Netherlands is centrally located starting point for students wanting to travel in Europe after the program.

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Gateway to a Masters Degree

The two courses in this program fit well into students in the undergraduate Teacher Certification program. In addition, the six credits from courses can be taken in such a way that they can be applied toward one of several Masters programs in our College. See the “Courses” section above.

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How to Apply for 2021

1) Use this online scheduling tool or email the Program Leader (Heather Shea at hshea@msu.edu)  to set up an interview in the fall of 2020 (typically before mid November). During this informal, 20-min interview, we’ll discuss your interest in this education abroad program and how participating will help you meet your educational, professional, and personal goals. In addition, you’ll be guided through the online application process and we’ll discuss logistics (including required pre-trip meetings).
*(It will not help to complete the application + skip the interview. The interview is KEY.)

2) Make an appointment at the Office of Financial Aid, and make a plan to cover the costs of your education abroad program! Each year scholarship money goes unrequested and unused: GO HERE ASAP to inquire. (Ask Office of Education Abroad for help!).
Even if Financial Aid covers program fee + tuition, you’re responsible for some transportation costs, spending money, some meals, + FLIGHT COST unless you apply for additional funds. We highly encourage that you apply for scholarships.

3) Get a Passport: Visit HERE for info on how to apply, and HERE if it’s your first time applying for a passport. Finally, visit HERE to print out your passport application. It’s about $120. If you need help, contact program leader for advice! You will be expected to bring your passport to a pre-trip meeting. If you are an international student, please consider applying for your visa early.
*(A birth certificate is required, but they mail it back to you—if you have lost yours, visit your state’s birth certificate website to order a new copy.)