Eleventh Global Studies Conference

Abstract

Educational standards of various professions emphasize the development of competence in global issues and intercultural understanding of diverse populations. Gains for students include a deeper understanding of the universality of social problems and allows the opportunity to conduct a critical self-analysis of one’s own worldview. The study abroad experience may give students an edge in post-graduate employment through a direct experience that increases marketability, adaptability, and appreciation for cultural diversity. Study abroad programs and diversity courses could be instrumental in meeting these standards. This study explores the impact of a cultural immersion experience on the social and cultural attitudes of undergraduate social work and global health students after an immersion experience in Jamkhed, Maharashtra, India. Methods used were a pre- and post-test survey and a post-trip focus group. Implications of an international experience include enhancement of curriculum content in building intercultural competence, professional identity development, insight into one’s own values and belief systems, and an understanding of one’s own cultural competence ability. Ongoing education in this area is imperative for social workers and global health practitioners to work effectively and to maintain ethical standards of practice. Study findings and lessons learned from the immersion experience will be discussed.