Abstract:

My presentation examines the use of technology and the online forum to educate students and introduce study abroad opportunities. I developed Parsons' first hybrid study abroad course, which has successfully completed its 9th year with great results. By exploring this topic I aim to investigate new opportunities using hybrid methods to enable students the chance to apply skills learned in their academic program to a real world context. Online pre coursework allows students to study from various parts of the world and engage in lectures and discussion forums that address social, economic and political topics related to Italy as key player in the global marketplace.

A two-week onsite excursion to select cities in Italy allows students to gather on location with me to further examine Italian culture, fashion, customs, and international business practices. Direct experience learning supported by technology creates a unique learning environment. I will examine the benefits of designing hybrid curriculum to reach a wider range of students and provide experiential learning.

My goal is two-fold, first, to encourage other universities to use technology to design curriculum that explores new methods of global education and independent studies. Second, engage faculty in open discussions that nurture cross-disciplinary student exchanges and foster external projects between universities using an online forum.

Keywords:

Hybrid, online, experiential, technology, study abroad.