Abstract:

High Impact practices are excellent ways to increase student engagement, retention, persistence, and grade point average. Study abroad experiences are one example of a high impact practice, and have the added benefit of increasing student proficiency in working with people from other cultures, both on their home campus and in the larger world around them. Educators will have a better understanding of how a cultural experience such as a short term study abroad course can have long-lasting, positive consequences for students.

In addition, the seminar will share the goals of a planning ‘recon’ mission, ways to partner with sister institutions and service agencies in foreign countries, and ideas on arranging cultural engagement. The presentation will address budgeting, and ways to keep the experience both affordable for students and at no expense for faculty. Finally, attention will be given to the planning of supplemental academic assignments to ensure a positive learning experience for students.

This session is designed for faculty who are considering traveling with students for short term (ten days to two weeks) academic and cultural opportunities.

Keywords:

Study abroad, high impact practices, cultural exchange.