Perceived Longitudinal Effects of SLMTs

Abstract

This current study analyzed the long-term holistic development of intercultural competency in undergraduates who participated in a short-term service-learning missions trip (SLMT). We compared alumni who had participated in the program against a control group who did not. As expected, the SLMT group had significantly higher perceived intercultural competency in the scales of Knowledge, Awareness, Behavior, Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Growth, Intellect, and Spirituality. It was also found that alumni who participated in the SLMT in conjunction with a study abroad trip experienced significantly higher gains in all eight of the competency scales when compared to those who only participated in the SLMT and the control group. Furthermore, there were no significant differences found between the SLMT time cohorts (2–7, 8–13 post-experience) for six of the eight competencies. We conclude by discussing how the intentional use of preparation, reflection, and debriefing are critical for perceived changes in short-term missions’ experiences.

Letting it sink in: The longer-term impact of a social work short-term study abroad course

“…The findings of this study reflected that for our participants, the themes reflected not only an internalization of the experience, but also led to several forms of personal and professional awareness and advocacy. While we were excited to see the advocacy and community involvement, we were intrigued that spirituality and meaning-making work also occurred, which is reflected in other study abroad literature (Burrows et al, 2018;Wolcott & Motyka, 2013).…”

Effects of Short-Term Mission Trips on Recipients’ Self-Esteem and Readiness for Self-Directed Learning

“…Unfortunately, most studies have focused on the effects of STMs on volunteers (e.g., Burrows et al, 2018; Trinitapoli & Vaisey, 2009; Walling et al, 2006) and neglected the effects on recipients. Limitations of existing studies, coupled with the rise in prevalence and controversy surrounding STMs, suggest a pressing need to address this gap.…”