Who are the beneficiaries of Canadian university professional programming overseas? : the case of BEd practicum placements in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Abstract

This case study looks at a private primary school in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and how it has been affected by ongoing annual practicum placements with BEd students from the University of Prince Edward Island. The purpose of the study is to examine if and how universities can deliver community and international development initiatives through academic and professional programming, or if these experiences only benefit university students and therefore institution. This case study includes primary source documents from SVG, as well as in-depth interviews and observation at the school in question after the BEd practicum teachers had left at the end of their term. Through this study, it becomes clear that this is a case where the school and its members are beneficiaries of the partnership, however more structure is needed to ensure that this is the case moving forward; that all parties continue to be treated as equals and with respect. There is an opportunity for more programs to have positive effects on a community if these steps are taken and used in other professional programs at the university level.