Perceptions of Cultural Learning in Study Abroad Programs in the United States: Chinese Student Perspectives

• In Event: Research on Study Abroad

Abstract

This study was conducted to understand how 15 undergraduate Chinese Public Health students perceived and made sense of cultural learning, global awareness, and professional development as a result of participating in an eight-week study abroad program in Public Health within the U.S. The study occurred in a large public R1 university within the Midwest. Qualitative and interpretive methodology was used which consisted of semi-structured interviews, focus groups, program surveys and reflective journals. Overall, we found learning about foreign culture was an important goal for most participants. Chinese undergraduate students used a comparative lens to make sense of their cultural learning experiences. However, their understanding of cultural learning was ambiguous and usually had limited, even superficial meaning to some students.

Authors

• Sara Bano, North Dakota State University

• John M. Dirkx, Michigan State University

• Qing Xia, Michigan State University