Orientation Models for Summer Education Abroad Programs and the Development of Intercultural Competency

• In Event: Roundtable Session 78
  In Roundtable Session: Postsecondary Student Experiences and Outcomes

Abstract

In an effort to advance the understanding of international education and explore specific aspects of short-term education abroad programs, this study focuses on how students are prepared, and the intercultural learning and engagement outcomes that result from the experience. This study used a mixed methods, pretest-posttest control group design to explore the impacts of a pre-departure orientation course on the intercultural development of students. Results indicate that students who participated in semester-length course had the highest net intercultural development gains among the three groups. The implications of this study are worth further investigation and demonstrate the need to better understand education abroad, including the student experience, role of faculty in fostering learning outcomes, and pre-departure preparation in developing intercultural competency.

Authors

• Amy Eileen Anderson, University of Dayton

• Carolyn S. Ridenour, University of Dayton