Immersion, Service, and Civic Engagement in South Africa: Thoughts on Teaching Without a Syllabus

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore the ways in which study abroad, immersion, and service can be combined in a way that is most beneficial for the students and the local communities where the students visit. To examine this issue, I focus on a few specific questions: What is the purpose of a study abroad experience? What is cultural immersion and is it an important goal for study abroad programs? What are the advantages and disadvantages of establishing a 'community service' project as part of a study abroad experience? As will become clear, even if there is agreement on the purposes and goals of study abroad, cultural immersion, and service learning, it is imperative that students, teachers, and administrators think critically about how to implement such programs if we are to provide meaningful study abroad and community service opportunities to our students.