Examining Study Abroad Cultural Immersion Experiences for Ethnically Diverse Students: Did Global Mindedness Increase?

Abstract

Study abroad programs have become increasingly popular in the United States and in other countries around the world. This descriptive study examines the impact of a short-term study abroad program on a group of ethnically diverse students in order to examine changes in global mindedness after participation in the program. The Hett (1993) Global Mindedness scale was administered before and after the study abroad program. The results suggest an increase in global mindedness scores at the conclusion of the program for ethnic minority students. The results also suggest that student grade point average (GPA) and student class level (senior, junior, or sophomore) were related to increases in global mindedness over the course of the study abroad experience. Recommendations and implications for educators, study abroad programs, and universities are summarized.