Nursing Student Adaptation During A Semester Abroad

Abstract

This study was completed to understand correlations between undergraduate nursing students’ initial readiness for cross-cultural experience in study abroad and final levels of socio-cultural adaptation. Deardorff (2006) suggests that attitudes, values, knowledge, and skills are essential factors leading to effective function in a new culture. Her Developmental Model of Intercultural Competence was the guiding framework for this research study. Two groups of American nursing students traveling to South Africa and Puerto Rico for a semester were invited to participate. Students completed the Global Competence Aptitude Assessment prior to departure and the Socio-cultural Adaptation Scale at week four and upon return from abroad, along with a final survey. Findings demonstrate significant correlations between students’ internal and external readiness scores and final socio-cultural adaptation scores, and are supported by final survey stu dent comments. Implications for nursing education are discussed.