Enhancing Human Service

Programs through Study

Abroad

Dr. Laurie CraigenDr. Narketta Sparkman

The Current State of Study Abroad Programs More than 85% of U.S. colleges and

universities offer study abroad programs (Whalen, 2008).

The number of American students studying abroad has more than doubled in the last ten years, with particular increases in short term programs and international service learning opportunities (Mapp, 2011; Pariola & Pariola, 2010).

Costa Rica Spring Break 2014

Why service learning in human services? “Given the focus on interdisciplinary

helping in the human services field, the combination of human services and service learning creates a dynamic where the results are mutually beneficial; the community, the student, and the university can benefit from service learning experiences.”

Relevance to the Field Within our increasing globalized society, international

experience is paramount for future HSPs. Students can gain increased knowledge of the human

services field and they can critically evaluate and reflect on their pre-service training.

Service learning experiences enhance the development of communication skills, self-reflection, and confidence (Woodside, Carruth, Clapp & Robertson, 2006).

Increases a future practitioners’ multicultural competence.

Models of Service Learning

Models of Service Learning: Short-Term Programs Island programs

Faculty from a home university lead a group of students in a short (approximately 2 weeks) study abroad program (site visits, cultural events, etc.).

Can provide students with confidence to apply to lengthier programs in future.

Faculty tend to prefer these programs because there is more control over planning

Direct enrollment/full immersion programs Students apply to a university abroad and are accepted (for semester

or year-long stay). Hybrid programs

Share elements of both island programs as well as direct enrollment/full immersion programs (Porcano, 2011).

Represent more than half of study abroad population.

International Service Learning Programs Definition:

Include activities in the community, particular rendering of a service, attainment of curricular credit, application or development of skills, and practice of structured reflection, in the form of journal responses and/or a final report (Mooney & Edwards, 2001; Wessel, 2007).

The service component is not an additional requirement or course add-on. Rather, the key is integrating service with learning (Pariola & Pariola, 2006).

Share many qualities of traditional study abroad programs. But, distinguishing component is emphasis places on community-based service activities.

Benefits of International Service Learning Programs

Benefits of International Service Learning Programs Students demonstrate growth in

intercultural development (intercultural sensitivity and cultural awareness) (Sindt & Pachmayer, 2005).

Promote the value of responsible global citizenship in students.

Provides students with skills that position them at an advantage in our competitive global marketplace (Grusky, 2000).

Benefits cont… Students exhibit growth in personal and

academic domains with increased rates of motivation, understanding, and retention of academic material (Wessel, 2007).

Studentsreported increased levels of empathy, an increased development of their professional identity, and an expanded commitment to social justice issues and advocacy (Mapp, 2011).

Costa Rica Study Abroad

The Development Process1. Selecting a location:2. Choosing a focus.3. Coordination with study abroad office.4. Coordination with an external agency

(API).5. Coordination with Department:

Course scheduling Course development Course registration

1. Selecting a location Where in the world? What service learning opportunities are

available? Cost? Travel time. Study abroad office’s experience with

location. Outside agency’s (API) experience with

location.

2. Choosing a Focus What type of service learning

opportunities are available? What will the focus of the course/service

learning be? How can you integrate these

experiences into a 3 credit course? What course is the best fit? Do you need

to develop a new course?

3. Coordinating with Study Abroad Office Making contact with study abroad office. Brainstorming meetings. Keeping open lines of communication. Clearly communicating expectations,

vision, and goals of program. Understanding each other’s expertise

(content experts versus study abroad experts).

4. Coordinating with External Agencies Oftentimes, for “Island” type programs, university

study abroad offices will coordinate with an external agency that specializes in study abroad programs.

Example: Academic Programs International (API) Considering advantages and disadvantages of

using an external agency Cost Experience with geographic location. Having a contact in location. The planning process (excursions, site visits, etc.).

5. Coordination with the Department What course is the best fit for your service

learning experience (new course or re-vamping of established course).

How will students register for course? How can faculty get incentives for teaching

class (Is it part of your course load)? Can the Department support (underwrite)

any of the cost for students?

Barriers to Consider Recruitment of students Cost of trip Logistics (i.e., showing up at the airport

on time). Money exchange Language barrier Does human services exist as a distinct

field where you are going?

Children’s Palliative Care Clinic

Components 9 days, 8 nights Guest speakers relevant to your

vision/field. Site visits/service learning

Elder care facility Palliative care clinic for children After school care/orphange (multi-care

facility for children). Cultural activities/excursions

Important Lessons we Learned The language barrier is real (especially for a short-

stay service learning program). Be prepared for the unexpected (student sickness). Exchange money EARLY (to avoid scams, etc.). Be prepared to use your own human services skills

(grumpy students, homesick students, etc.). Set boundaries/expectations up front about

behavior/drinking, etc. Be patient with planning process. Bonding activities at the beginning of the program

are CRITICAL (zip lining).

Student Feedback

gained skills for living and/or working in a culture other than my own.

developed greater confidence and a deepened sense of independence.

became more reflective of my own culture and values.

gained an appreciation and understanding of different cultures.

developed new professional and personal goals.

am better equipped to communicate with individuals who are ethnically, linguistically, and culturally dif -

ferent from me.

have an increased desire to travel, study or work abroad.

3.00 3.20 3.40 3.60 3.80 4.00 4.20

Please rate the extent to which you agree with the following statement. As a result of this program, I...

Student HighlightsParticipating in the ODU Human Services Study Abroad trip was very challenging and rewarding at the same time. All three of the service projects challenged us one of us to maintain an open mind while being flexible to the unknown circumstances at each location.There are not enough words in the English language to express my satisfaction, enjoyment, growth, and gratitude for this program. The study abroad programs are wonderful and every student should attempt to participate in at least one during their college career.There was not anything about the program that was not beneficial, I would say the most beneficial aspect was the ability to actually do service work abroad and actually experience the culture. In addition, the ability to gain more experience with group collaboration and compromise and learning how to practice acceptance of others even if they differ from ourselves.

Questions????