Study abroad and the creation of global citizens - American students in Europe post 9/11

This project investigates how the university???s abstract objectives with regard to study abroad and the creation of global citizens are implemented, experienced, and evaluated both by university staff and students. On the basis of interviews and review of university documents, this study finds that ???American insularity??? not only forms an important reason to promote study abroad, but also complicates the integration into the host culture for American students who have had relatively little exposure to other countries, other cultures, and other languages. Current international politics and developments may very well further obstruct this process, as foreigners are often quick to confront the American with their opinions on issues such as the war in Iraq, which may create a somewhat hostile environment. Evaluations of study abroad programs seem to be limited to counting the numbers of students participating and their responses and suggestions after the experience. However, it is a much more complex exercise to link evaluations directly to the UIUC objective of ???creating global citizens???. A student???s positive experiences abroad do not necessarily reflect an increase cultural awareness, while more intensive struggles and confrontations may initiate a thinking process that continues well beyond return to the home country. The project includes a proposal for continued research.unpublishe