Extending the Stay: Using Community-Based Research and Service Learning to Enhance Short-Term Study Abroad

Abstract

Short-term study abroad (STSA) is an important alternative for students not likely to participate in semester-long or yearlong international study abroad programs. The authors present an assessment of their short-term study abroad program, Environmental and Cultural Conservation in Latin America. The authors show that STSA programs appeal to students not currently choosing to go abroad. The authors use four specific strategies to create outcomes that allow them to meet some of the goals of longer term study abroad. These strategies include (a) making links to campus coursework, (b) conducting community-based research, (c) participating in community service learning, and (d) emphasizing research skills and interdisciplinary connections. The assessment showed that STSA resulted in altered course of study, subsequent travel or study abroad, increased interest in interdisciplinary studies, and influenced perceptions regarding globalization.