Abstract:
Short-term study abroad programs are increasingly popular but their relative brevity makes it difficult to both successfully convey discipline-specific content and provide students with a meaningful cultural experience. Purdue University students participated in a 15-day course in Costa Rica in 2006 and 2008. Journals, group discussions, and a questionnaire administered at the end of the course were used to evaluate course impact on student comprehension of course material and interest in pursuing additional international experiences. Students agreed or strongly agreed that the course increased their knowledge of cropping systems and race and culture in Costa Rica
and of the importance of biodiversity in agriculture. Journal entries and group discussions supported this self-assessment. At least 90% of the students agreed or strongly agreed that the course increased their interest in international agriculture and their interest in participating in another study abroad course. Seven of 19 eligible students (37%) subsequently participated in an additional international research or education program after completing the course. This paper describes the experience and provides prospective programs with a blueprint for implementing similar short-term international agriculture courses with a substantial field-work component.
Keywords:
short-term study abroad course, Costa Rica, cultural experience
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