After abroad : how studying abroad changes views on education

Abstract

Students returning from study abroad programs often have a difficult time transitioning back into their everyday lives. There are certain enhanced educational features built into study abroad programs, such as hands-on learning through field trips or excursions, closer relationships with other students and professors, and the fact that the environment itself can be utilized as a learning tool. This project seeks to question how these educational experiences abroad affect students' upon their return, specifically in terms of attitudes towards the educational experience at Ball State University and what Ball State University can do in order to alleviate some of the struggles that returning students face.