Abstract
This study investigates the evolving landscape of modern student travel through the unexplored intersection of multiple study abroad experiences and integrative learning among college students. While integrative learning traditionally focuses on connecting coursework within customized majors, this research innovatively applies the concept to contemporary travel patterns through multiple study abroad experiences. Through a qualitative study of 12 undergraduate students who participated in educational programs across 10 different countries, we examine how multiple study abroad experiences impact students’ professional and personal development within four key areas of the integrative framework: application, comparison, context understanding, and synthesis. Using an innovative technological immersed photo elicitation methodology, we conducted semi-structured interviews to analyze students’ experiences. Findings reveal strong alignment with integrative learning principles, particularly in life connections, critical decision-making, and navigational competence in new situations, though synthesis of experiences emerged as a challenge area. The study demonstrates that expanding financial access to international travel could significantly enhance students’ creative thinking, cultural intelligence, and problem-solving capabilities, particularly among underrepresented populations. Through examining tourism practices through a socio-economic lens, we uncover how leisure mobility shapes worldviews, interpersonal relationships, and professional aspirations. This research provides valuable insights for administrators, policymakers, and tour operators in developing more inclusive and effective study abroad programming, while introducing a novel framework for assessing educational returns on investment in international education.
Presenters
Katrina B ReedAssistant Professor, Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Management, Penn State Abington, Pennsylvania, United States Madelyn Plenskofski
Student, Bachelor's Degree, Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania, United States Gabriella Gibilante
Student, Psychology, Penn State University, Pennsylvania, United States Ja’la Brown
Student, Criminal Justice, Penn State Abington, Pennsylvania, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Changing Dimensions of Contemporary Leisure
KEYWORDS
Study Abroad Programs, Integrative Thinking, Photo Elicitation, Immersive Experience
