Study Abroad as a Transformative Experience: Measuring Transformative Learning Phases and Outcomes

• Main Author: Stone, Garrett Anderson
• Format: Others
• Published: BYU ScholarsArchive 2014
• Subjects: transformative learning; study abroad; travel efficacy; intercultural competence; intentions; Recreation Business
• Online Access: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/etd/4020; https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=5019&context=etd

The purpose of this study was to verify Mezirow's (1978) Transformative Learning Theory as a model to explain how study abroad participation facilitates efforts to internationalize students in higher education. Specifically this study used block-entry, logistic and linear regression models to explore the relationship between transformative learning processes and study abroad outcomes. Data were collected from business students (N =107) at Brigham Young University using a retrospective pretest method. Findings indicated transformative learning was occurring in short term study abroad settings and transformative learning phases were related to increases in Intercultural Competence. These findings were consistent between year cohorts suggesting the impacts were lasting.