Pedagogy and Professional Development

Opportunities in Study Abroad: Planning, Steps and Suggestions

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Abstract

Faculty lead field studies are supported at most universities, but they can be time consuming and daunting to plan. The benefits of study abroad experiences have been well documented (Livingmore, 2011). There is growing evidence that short term faculty lead field studies provide a positive outlook on the fashion industry (Boorady, et al., 2016). Furthermore, these experience enhance students’“cultural intelligence” or the ability to communicate with diverse cultures and work well in diverse cultural settings (e.g., Livermore, 2011, Rolling,Presley, & Thornton, 2018). There is some literature on faculty lead international experiences study the apparel industry, such as El Salvador (e.g.Ha-Brookshire,2008). However, limited information was found on developing a foundation for a faculty lead field study, particularly to a non-European country. Therefore, the purpose of this concept paper is to outline the steps of making a successful faculty lead field study to a country that is not a common destination, but equally as pertinent to the apparel and textiles industry and that provides a rich contrasting cultural experience for undergraduate students residing in the United States. 

Keywords: Study Abroad, Fashion, Concept

How to Cite:

Saiki, D. & Adomaitis, A. D., (2024) “Opportunities in Study Abroad: Planning, Steps and Suggestions”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 80(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.17775