Learning for Change: Experiences Among International University Learners

Abstract

Students returning from their bivouac abroad report that their study-abroad experience has changed the way they look at themselves and the world. My research will examine the theory of identity development, as well as the transformative concept of adult learning. It also explores the critical theory of Mezirow and analyzes international students’ transformational learning experiences. Subsequently, my study attempts to discover how these experiences may impact students’ flexibility, identity, adaptation, and well-being. I will also explore the identity changes and the notion of adaptation that may affect the personalities of international university students from different countries who participate in long-term study-abroad programs. The research will discuss my personal philosophy of practice and how I relate this experience to my own meaning-making. I anticipate that the findings and interpretations of this research will confirm that as we strive to understand our own existence, we must work hard to advance our education. If we reflect on anything we have learned, we can realize that it is the product of repeated exposure and thought. I also hope that my review of the literature will help in leading adults to recognize and reshape their patterns of believing, thinking, and feeling.