Evaluating pretravel study-abroad instruction utilizing curricular intervention and customized assessment

Abstract

Study abroad (SA), as a high-impact educational practice, entails knowledge and understanding of culture and a travel mindset. While pre-travel orientations assist students in program preparations, the efficacy of such training is unknown and the path for improvement unclear without reflection or feedback. In this article, we report on the design and scoring of an assessment tool focusing on student self-reflection. Over 200 students preparing for SA completed knowledge-based multiple-choice questions, as well as cultural competency and reflection-based free-response questions. This learning-by-doing intervention survey provided data on students’ understanding of host-country logistics, awareness of culture-specific practices, recognition of cultural symbols, and program fit with students’ goals. Student learning outcomes (SLOs) of SA orientation were aggregated primarily by gender, discipline, and SA requirements. Implementing a pre-departure assessment as an instructional tool stimulated reflection and identified discipline- and gender-specific SLOs to assist in designing future orientations for an improved SA experience.