A Mixed Methods Study: Do Ethnic Minority Students Experience a Change in their Sense of Cultural Sensitivity After a Study Abroad Program?

Study abroad programs are becoming increasingly popular in the United States and in other countries. The present study used a mixed-methods approach to examine cultural sensitivity in 18 ethnically diverse college students who participated in a study abroad program. Participants completed pre-and-post study questionnaires including open-ended questions targeting students’ shifts in their levels of cultural sensitivity and their most memorable activities during the short-term study abroad experience. Quantitative results suggest significant growth in students’ “cultural sensitivity” after participation in the study abroad program. Four major themes emerged from the qualitative data, including appreciation for cultural immersion and the novel, rewarding experiences students had while participating in the study abroad program. Implications of findings for educators and administrators are examined.