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Article
Attitudes and Perceptions of Participants in a Horticulture Study Abroad Course at Iowa State University
HortTechnology
  • Ann Marie VanDerZanden, Iowa State University
  • Cynthia L. Haynes, Iowa State University
  • Gail Nonnecke, Iowa State University
  • Robert Martin, Iowa State University
Document Type
Article
Publication Version
Published Version
Publication Date
1-1-2007
Abstract

Globalization affects many aspects of American society, including higher education. Many institutions of higher education realize the need to help students become global citizens and thus require an international perspectives course as part of their undergraduate curriculum. The goal of this research was to evaluate the Horticulture Travel Course (Hort 496), which includes an international travel component, to determine whether it meets the university and College of Agriculture's expected learning outcomes and competencies in international and multicultural awareness. A 23-question survey instrument consisting of open- and close-ended questions was mailed to 116 former Hort 496 participants. Forty-three percent of the questionnaires were returned and were usable. Survey questions were designed to gather information on student demographics, previous international travel experience, learning outcomes achieved through participation in the pretrip preparatory class and the study abroad experience, and how these experiences influenced career development. Responses indicate that both the pretrip preparatory class and study abroad experience helped participants achieve the course learning outcomes. Furthermore, student presentations and guest speakers, and interacting with locals and planned tours immersed students the most in the pretrip preparatory class and study abroad experience, respectively. A majority of participants observed recognizable differences in agricultural management or production practices between the United States and the country visited. Participants also noted that Hort 496 had a positive affect on their communication skills, interpersonal skills, and personal growth.

Comments

This is an article from HortTechnology 17 (2007): 128. Posted with permission.

Copyright Owner
American Society for Horticultural Science
Language
en
File Format
application/pdf
Citation Information
Ann Marie VanDerZanden, Cynthia L. Haynes, Gail Nonnecke and Robert Martin. "Attitudes and Perceptions of Participants in a Horticulture Study Abroad Course at Iowa State University" HortTechnology Vol. 17 Iss. 1 (2007) p. 128 - 132
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/annmarie-vanderzanden/23/