Eleven students from the Twin Cities campus spent their winter break taking the CEHD course History and Culture of Education in Cuba (EDHD 3100/5100). They were paired with students from Cuba’s University of Pedagogical Sciences to promote cultural, language, and disciplinary exchange, and they participated in conferences on culture, history, and pedagogy with local faculty.

In Havana and Matanzas, they visited cultural sites to experience events related to the anniversary of the Cuban revolution. Students called the experience unforgettable and life- changing, citing the power of homestays. “I loved staying in a house with Cubans and getting to see what life here is really like,” was a common response.

Keitha-Gail Martin-Kerr in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction led the group and taught the course with Laura Koch, associate professor and director of CEHD international initiatives and relations. It grew out of CEHD global initiatives and will be offered again based on this year’s success.