Poster 18:

Crossing Cultural Boundaries in Teacher Education: Bedouin College Students’ Experiences in Jewish Schools in Israel

Inna Smirnov-Okanin (Kaye Academic College of Education, Israel)

This qualitative case study explores the intercultural experiences of Bedouin college students enrolled in a teacher education program during their practical training in Jewish schools in Israel. Based on semi-structured interviews, it examines how these minority student-teachers navigate professional identity, cultural awareness, and belonging. Findings show that initial apprehension was transformed through supportive interactions with staff and pupils, leading to pedagogical growth and professional confidence. Despite linguistic challenges and uneven cultural exchange, Hebrew proficiency and professional competence became central to belonging. The study highlights the need for structured intercultural preparation and linguistic support in college/university-based teacher education programs.