Global Understanding through International Study : Learning from Experience at an American University

Abstract

International educational experience is widely presumed to have a wealth of benefits for both students and participating institutions, yet the amount of empirical study has not reflected these trends. A means for assessing international experience was developed at a four-year university in the U.S. Northwest and initiated with both outgoing and incoming American and visiting Japanese students. Particular attention was directed to exploring potential impacts of international study experience for academic and career decisions as well as overall world view. This research also informs on how curriculum and program development can build on individual-level experiences and changes associated with study abroad. Key words: study abroad, program assessment, student change, Japanese students, American