Shifting the Kaleidoscope ― Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Educators?Insights on Culture Shock, Identity & Pedagogy

Editor Smythe collects and draws lessons from the stories of four returned Peace Corps volunteers. The volunteers were Joe, in Moldova 2006-2008; Harley, in Kazakhstan 1999-2001; Ryder, in Kenya 1987-1990; and Hyacinth in Kenya 1984-1986. Smythe is particularly interested in curriculum development, culture shock and reverse culture shock, and the effect of Peace Corps experience on a volunteer's identity, among other things. He analyzes the narratives using post-structural hermeneutics, to add theoretical depth and understanding. As the book title suggests, a kaleidoscopic view, rather than a singular one, emerges. Annotation c2015 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)

Jon L. Smythe is a returned Peace Corps volunteer who taught English in a rural village in Cameroon. He received his PhD in curriculum studies and social foundations from Oklahoma State University and is currently an enrollment services director and adjunct instructor at Tulsa Community College.