| Title: |
Jacks of All Hats: Role Complexity, Ambiguity, and the Experiences of Short-Term Study Abroad Faculty |
| Language: |
English |
| Authors: |
Kayli Elaine Burnside; Cristina Wildermuth; Maria Rohach |
| Source: |
Journal of Comparative and International Higher Education. 2024 16(3):178-194. |
| Availability: |
Journal of Comparative and International Higher Education. 3107 B Hampton Highway, Yorktown, VA 23693. e-mail: oic213@lehigh.edu; Web site: https://www.ojed.org/index.php/jcihe/index |
| Peer Reviewed: |
Y |
| Page Count: |
17 |
| Publication Date: |
2024 |
| Document Type: |
Journal Articles; Reports - Research |
| Education Level: |
Higher Education; Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: |
College Faculty; International Educational Exchange; Teacher Exchange Programs; Faculty Development; Intercultural Programs; Teacher Attitudes; Minicourses; Difficulty Level; Ambiguity (Context); Cultural Enrichment |
| ISSN: |
2151-0393; 2151-0407 |
| Abstract: |
This study explores the experiences of short-term study abroad faculty at a liberal arts university in the Midwestern United States. We distributed a qualitative survey to all faculty who taught short-term study abroad courses at the institution, interviewed four short-term study abroad leaders, two short-term study abroad co-leaders, and reviewed the practices and history of the institution's study abroad office. Study participants' experiences were consistent with role complexity and ambiguity. Role-related challenges included preparing for the program and for reentry, managing the academic side of the course, monitoring students' and faculty members' physical and mental health, and facilitating group dynamics. Perceived benefits included cultural enrichment, professional growth, and the ability to enhance students' lives. Our study suggests that tolerance and the ability to handle complexity are critical leadership skills for faculty, and that short-term study abroad faculty need support and professional development to prepare for their multifaceted and complex duties. |
| Abstractor: |
As Provided |
| Entry Date: |
2024 |
| Accession Number: |
EJ1436864 |
| Database: |
ERIC |