ORANJESTAD, Aruba (AAN) — The Maria College fictional journey project gave Papiamento and Spanish students the opportunity to take part in an interactive educational experience involving a simulated trip to four countries: England, Curaçao, Ireland, and Colombia.
In an interview with Matutino DIARIO, Ms. Catherine, Papiamento and Spanish teacher at Maria College, explained that students “checked in,” traveled to each destination, and faced different real-life communication scenarios.
The project was conducted over two days, with students actively participating in role-based situations in each country.
“In every country, students were placed in situations where they had to use their communication skills, enter conversations, find solutions, and be creative—while adapting to the language and culture of that country,” Ms. Catherine explained.
She noted that the project aligns perfectly with the school’s annual theme, “Aruba, a Multicultural Country,” which she coordinates. The goal is to strengthen students’ understanding of cultural diversity and multilingual communication, reflecting Aruba’s everyday reality.
“Aruba is home to people from many backgrounds. Students constantly find themselves in different situations, and this project helps them develop practical communication skills. Their conversations are evaluated and count toward their subject grades,” she added.
On the final day, students visited the airport and the Port Authority, two of Aruba’s main entry points for tourists. There, they experienced scenarios such as handling situations as airport representatives and assisting travelers who may not speak multiple languages.
“This allows students to truly experience how culture and language influence daily life in Aruba and prepares them to communicate effectively in real-world situations,” Ms. Catherine concluded.
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