From Exclusive to Inclusive: A Mixed-Methods Investigation of Study Abroad Participation and Practices

Abstract

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to explore how postsecondary institutions with high and low study abroad participation rates communicate with students about study abroad opportunities. We were especially interested in identifying institutional policies and practices that focused on inequalities in access to study abroad. We addressed this purpose using a mixed-methods research design. We first conducted a quantitative regression analysis to identify two groups of institutions with especially high or low study abroad participation rates. We then applied a comparative qualitative content analysis to these institutions’ study abroad websites. Results suggested ways in which institutional policies and practices either perpetuate exclusion or promote access among diverse student populations.