Organizations’ Perception of Service-Learning Study Abroad Programs and Transformational Partnerships

• Published in: Journal of human sciences and extension Vol. 11; no. 1; p. 1
• Main Authors: Cully Garbers, Caroline, Roberts, T. Grady, Pracht, Dale
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Mississippi State Mississippi State University, School of Human Sciences 01.01.2023; Mississippi State University
• Subjects: College students; Community; Foreign students; Higher education; impact; ireland; organizations; Partnerships; Service learning; study abroad
• ISSN: 2325-5226; 2325-5226
• DOI: 10.55533/2325-5226.1372

Global education is becoming increasingly important in higher education institutions in the United States. Concurrently, service-learning is another educational activity becoming more popular in higher education institutions. Very little research has been done on the impact on the community from a service-learning perspective, especially as a part of a study abroad. The purpose of this study was to explore the impacts of a short-term service-learning study abroad program on the community partners (organizations) where students completed service-learning. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with leaders of organizations in Ireland who hosted students from the University of Florida during a study abroad program. Data were interpreted using Enos and Morton’s (2003) campus and community partnerships framework. Results revealed both transactional and transformational outcomes. Long-term impacts included cultural exchanges, the skill level of students, and moving partnerships forward. Recommendations for practice and research are provided.