NC State’s GTI Program Expands Global Teaching Opportunities and Scholarship
NC State University’s Global Training Initiative (GTI) has made a significant impact on international education through its Professional Development (PD) program for English Language Teachers in Azerbaijan. The initiative has not only enriched teaching practices abroad but has also fostered meaningful research and cross-cultural collaboration within the university’s World Languages and Cultures department.
Scholarship and Research Opportunities
Through GTI’s efforts, NC State colleagues examined the nuances of teacher education across national borders. Dr. Alison Turner, Assistant Professor of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), and Becky Cibulskis, International Program Coordinator, conducted a study on the GTI PD Program in Azerbaijan. Their research focused on the effectiveness of different pedagogical approaches in cross-cultural settings and highlighted key considerations for designing international professional development programs, particularly in adapting methodologies that align with local educational contexts.
“When we first launched the program in Azerbaijan, nearly everything about the teaching culture there was new to us,” said Cibulskis. “We had to continuously adapt our approach, adjusting outcomes, content, and structure to better meet the needs of the participants. This research has given us the opportunity to assess the long-term impact of those changes and understand how international teacher education can be more effective across cultural and pedagogical differences.”
The GTI program enabled participants to explore innovative teaching strategies, such as student-centered classrooms and Communicative Language Teaching (CLT), both of which contrast with the traditional teacher-centered approaches commonly used in Azerbaijani classrooms. Teachers in the program have gained exposure to interactive learning environments, ultimately enhancing their ability to engage students in more dynamic ways.
Expanding Collaboration in World Languages and Cultures
The collaboration between GTI and the World Languages and Cultures department has been particularly beneficial in broadening research horizons for faculty members. Dr. Turner, whose research initially centered on multilingual education in the U.S., noted that working with Azerbaijani educators expanded her understanding of global teaching methodologies. These experiences have equipped her with new perspectives that will enrich teacher preparation courses at NC State, benefiting future educators both domestically and internationally.
“Partnering with GTI has expanded our global collaborations and introduced us to new research opportunities we had never considered,” Turner said. “These connections have not only opened new avenues for scholarly work but have also strengthened my skills as an educator, allowing me to better prepare teachers for diverse classrooms both in the U.S. and abroad.”
The success of this professional development program is a testament to the collaborative efforts of dedicated educators. In addition to Dr. Turner’s contributions, Cate Madden of the NC State Intensive English Program (IEP) and Paula Wilder, who directs the International Office at Greensboro College, played key roles in leading the training. Their expertise and commitment further demonstrate the program’s impact, fostering cross-cultural learning and professional growth for both participants and instructors.
Scholarship Details and Participation
A key aspect of the GTI PD program is the fully funded scholarship opportunity, supported by the U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan. While not a traditional scholarship with financial awards, participants receive all program services free of charge, an estimated value of $1,000 per teacher. The program offers Azerbaijani educators access to professional development resources, networking opportunities, and direct engagement with American educators—an invaluable experience, particularly for those teaching in remote areas with limited English-speaking resources.
Teachers who participate in the program receive a certificate of completion, which has been recognized by school administrators and educational districts in Azerbaijan. Discussions are ongoing with the Azerbaijani Ministry of Science and Education to establish formal professional credentials for the program.
Broader Impact and Future Collaborations
The success of the GTI program has sparked interest in expanding collaborative efforts across other campus departments. GTI actively seeks faculty members willing to lead short-term global courses, particularly in trending fields such as artificial intelligence, political science, and data science. Additionally, the GEARS program offers research-focused opportunities for faculty to engage with international students, furthering cross-disciplinary academic collaboration.
As GTI continues to explore new partnerships and research initiatives, the program stands as a testament to the power of international academic exchange. By bridging cultural and educational gaps, GTI fosters a global learning community that benefits both educators and students worldwide.
For those interested in participating in future GTI programs or seeking research collaboration opportunities, additional details can be found on NC State’s GTI website.
