Effects of Orientation Training Provided to Students Going Abroad with the Erasmus Program

Abstract

This study, which was conducted with data obtained from students studying at Düzce University and benefiting from the Erasmus program, aimed to reveal how orientation training for students going abroad within the scope of the Erasmus Program contributes to students in academic, social and personal aspects. Research results show that orientation training strengthens social relations between students, provides general satisfaction, and offers benefits in different educational fields. According to the results of the study, students state that the orientation training serves the purpose of introducing the local culture, meeting the authorities, adapting, getting to know international students and exploring the university. The results of the study show that the duration of orientation training generally varies between two hours and one week, and this time is sufficient for students. However, some students stated that they did not make any personal contribution. This suggests that orientation programs need to be better designed and focus more on students' needs. In conclusion, the research emphasizes that orientation training helps new students adapt to university life and encourages them to establish social relationships. The content, duration and methods of orientation programs should be arranged in accordance with the needs of the students. In this way, orientation training will help students have a more positive and successful university experience. This research provides an important guide for universities to develop their orientation programs.