Study abroad and disciplinary thinking and practising

The impact of study abroad on ways of thinking and practising in the disciplines.

School: History, Classics and Archaeology

Team Members: Robert Mason, Chris Perkins, Stephan Malinowski

Abstract

This project seeks to explore the implications of study abroad for the development of students’ academic skills, informed by the paradigm of ways and thinking and practising in the disciplines and by research on learning environments. It would do so by following students over time, to explore the evolution of these skills against the context of the experience of a different learning environment. The project will also explore the experience for students of learning in a different language. Its focus, study abroad, is a significant aspect of the student experience for many undergraduates. While this is commonly identified as highly advantageous for academic development, our detailed understanding of its advantages is weaker, thus complicating efforts to articulate (both for students and for those beyond the university) the purposes and value of study abroad. The project would tackle these issues, for the benefit of both students and teachers.

Data would be gathered via questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Analysis of the data would inform work in HCA, LLC, and CAHSS on joint degrees and on the management of study abroad, to assist programmes in providing support to students participating in study abroad. It would also inform the development of guides for students considering, and then participating in, study abroad. The funding sought would be used to support interview transcription.

Final Project Report

Download the final project report (PDF)