Studying Abroad in College: A Longitudinal Study Investigating How a Living-Learning Community Impacts Students (Poster 37): SIG-Learning Environments, 9:00 AM

• In Event: e-Lightening Ed-Talk Session 6

Abstract

The purpose of this longitudinal, mixed-method study was to identify which elements of a living-learning community based in one of Pacific University’s (pseudonym) signature study abroad programs influenced students’ intellectual, personal, social, and spiritual growth. After two years of data collection, 240 undergraduates completed a survey composed of 32 questions that addressed: 1) Consent, 2) Demographics, 3) Input, 4) Environment, 5) Learning Outcomes. Results found that group meals, personal travel, the educational field trip, cultural activities, the faculty-in-residence, and classes were the six most influential program elements that contributed positively to student development. Conclusively, 98% of participants reported intellectual, personal, and social growth, while 71% reported spiritual growth. This living-learning community helped reshape students’ preconceptions and developed more globally-minded citizens.

Authors

• Stella Erbes, Pepperdine University

• Crystal Yoon, Pepperdine University