The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of participation in a study abroad program (SAP) on college students' level of development in terms of global perspective, attitudes toward cultural diversity, and self-efficacy. In addition, this study also sought to investigate students' changes in their career interests, attitudes toward both the host and home countries, knowledge and skills they gained from SAPs, and motivation for participation in SAPs. Twelve research questions were developed to guide this study.
The sample consisted of 21 students who went to SAPs (n=21) and those who enrolled in summer quarter 1999 but did not go on SAPs (n=77) in the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences at The Ohio State University. Data were collected via questionnaire surveys and interviews. A questionnaire designed to measure Global Perspective, Attitudes Toward Cultural Diversity, and Self-Efficacy was mailed to the study abroad group (n=21) before and after the SAPs. The same questionnaire was also mailed to the comparison group at the beginning and end of the summer quarter 1999. Focus group and individual interviews with the study abroad group were conducted after they returned. Descriptive statistics, multiple regression, logistic regression and t-test were applied to analyze the survey data. Qualitative data obtained from interviews were analyzed using inductive data analysis.
Questionnaire surveys did not show significant changes in students' global perspective, attitudes toward cultural diversity and self-efficacy as a result of SAPs possibly due to the small sample size and non-random samples. Qualitative data analysis showed that students' global perspective was enhanced by the SAPs. SAPs contributed to students' development of intercultural sensitivity. Participants were more aware of and open to cultural diversity. The experience provided new challenges to participants and assisted them in becoming more confident about themselves. Study abroad students were likely to develop favorable attitudes toward their host country accompanied by some criticism toward the United States. Students gained new knowledge and skills from study abroad experience. Personal interests, peer influence, desire to experience something different and cost were important factors in motivating students to participate in SAPs.
It is recommended that general education programs include study abroad experiences. Preparation prior to study abroad is vital for a successful SAP. Former study abroad students should be used as valuable resources to recruit and market the SAPs with special attention given to recruit more minority students for these programs. Strong commitment from top administration is important to fostering the SAPs in the college.