Institutional Environment, Student Motivation and Study Abroad Participation

• In Event: 75.034 - Pluralistic and Global Dimensions of College Student Outcomes

Abstract

Using national longitudinal data gathered through the National Survey of Student Engagement, this study explores the impact of institutional characteristics on students’ fulfillment of study abroad plan in the first year. This study separates the impacts of institutional characteristics, students’ background and self-motivations in order to give practical suggestions to higher education institutions to expand student participation in study abroad. Preliminary analysis found students enrolled in baccalaureate and private institutions had higher possibility of participating study abroad. Intangible campus environment characteristics had varied effects, while academic challenge and enriched education experience performed as a strong push factor. The impacts of institutional characteristics were more influential to students who did not have study abroad plan in their first year.

Authors

• Lanlan Mu, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Victor Borden