Newswise — Two South Dakota State University professors in pursuit of strengthening their global perspective headed more than 5,500 miles east from their Brookings home to Istanbul, Turkey.

A yearlong sabbatical leave, spent in Hande Briddick’s home country, served as an educational and rewarding adventure for her and husband, Chris.

The College of Education and Human Sciences associate professors, who teach within SDSU’s Department of Counseling and Human Development, left for Istanbul in August 2013 and returned this July.

Hande, originally from Ankara, was made aware of an opportunity in 2012 regarding teaching in a Turkish university. Upon further discussion, Hande and Chris were invited to teach at Bahcesehir University in Istanbul. As part of their agreement, the professors taught both graduate and undergraduate courses within both the faculties of Educational Sciences and Art and Sciences.

One of the most exciting assignments for the professors was working in a private Bahcesehir K-8 school on Etiler campus. The K-8 is connected with BAU’s “University Within Schools” program, which encourages each faculty member in BAU Educational Sciences to work closely with K-12 schools for continual professional development and skill enhancement.

Helping in elementary

The professors said their primary task at the K-8 school was helping where it was needed. “We asked the principal how we could assist, and she welcomed us aboard like regular staff members,” said Chris. “It was truly a welcomed adventure within an adventure.”

Hande, in collaboration with Bahcesehir Etiler principal Naime Demirbas and Bahcesehir Kollejleri counseling department chair Ozen Yazgan, developed Life and Career Skills curriculum for elementary students. American School Counselor Association standards and 21st Century Skills provided perspective in curriculum development.

Among Hande’s other projects were two short curricula on listening skills and friendship for elementary students, prepared in collaboration with school counselors Sibel Peste, Sebnem Zeybek and Eda Arslantas Girgin. “The collaboration was critical in offering culturally sensitive and appropriate materials for children,” said Hande.

Chris developed a five-week father’s club discussion group, which brought together fathers of the students to discuss issues concerning their children, campus and the community.

SDSU dean visits Turkey

College of Education and Human Sciences Dean Jill Thorngren took five-day trip to Istanbul in March to meet with the faculty and search for collaborative opportunities between the two universities.

“In Turkey, universities immerse the student teachers in the elementary schools much more, and have extended internships,” said Thorngren. “But SDSU and BAU do share the 21st Century Skills, which prepare students for globalization, and emphasize teamwork through critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and social responsibility.”

Thorngren said an academic collaboration between SDSU and BAU is on the horizon, thanks to the Briddicks’ efforts over the past year.

“We worked many, many hours, but the experience was invaluable,” said Hande, who stressed the importance of students and professors taking time to study and work abroad. “We live in the era of an ever increasing global perspective, and it requires us to think and engage on that level.”

Chris and Hande said the experience helped them grow, personally and professionally.

The Briddicks recognize the campus support they received across the board at both at SDSU and BAU.

“The lessons learned and the informative nature of this experience will resonate with us for years to come,” said Chris. “It was transformative indeed.”

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