Experiential Public Health Study Abroad Education: Strategies for Integrating Theory and Practice

Abstract

Several reputable commissions on higher education have recommended that U.S. schools of public health develop competency-based education grounded in greater realism through enhanced field experience. The purpose of this article is to present a case study that illustrates an experiential public health education delivery model that meets these expectations. A 3-week field-based course is taught in developing countries each year to expose students to public health strategies in resource poor environments. A primary educational aim is to facilitate comprehension of the multiple influences (financial, political, technical, and cultural) that impact health care delivery and national development. Course participants are exposed to and interact with governmental and nongovernmental organizations in host countries. Students actively participate in course management. Measurable benefits accrue to the students, faculty, and the School of Public Health through this field-based academic program.

Integrating Service Learning Into the Study Abroad Program: U.S. Sociology Students in Mexico

“…There is very little literature on the topic of service learning abroad, although Dyjack et al (2001) and Boyle et al (1999) described the experiential component of their graduate programs in public health and social work. These programs focus more on observation and field experience than on service.…”

An International Experience Mandate for Undergraduates in a College of Health and Human Services: Initial Assessment

“…The key attributes were developed from the learning outcomes for the course which are based on literature review findings. The attributes depicted mirror the documented effects of student participation in service learning abroad (Boyle, et al, 1999;Bringle, et al, 2011;Dyjack, et al, 2001;and Evanson & Zust, 2004). Students involved in HHS 350 reported gains in the following areas: cultural awareness; knowledge about health and human services delivery abroad; global understanding; some increase in second language fluency; and enhanced clarity regarding career path.…”

“…A few researchers have examined the effects of participating in international service learning activities (Boyle, et al, 1999;Bringle, et al, 2011;Dyjack, et al, 2001;and Evanson & Zust, 2004). Participants showed gains in the following areas: cultural awareness; understanding of social justice issues; motivation to pursue future service activities; and enhanced clarity vis-à-vis career path.…”

Prospects for Integrating Service Learning into Short-Term International Study

“…A few researchers have examined the effects of participating in international service learning activities (Boyle et al, 1999;Bringle et al, 2011;Dyjack et al, 2001;Evanson & Zust, 2004). Participants showed gains in the following areas: cultural awareness; understanding of social justice issues; motivation to pursue future service activities; and enhanced clarity vis-à-vis career path.…”