Impact Of Cross Cultural Study Experiences On Cultural Sensitivity Development

Research was performed looking at cultural sensitivity development of students participating in cross-cultural study experiences. The primary research focus was short-term, 4-6 weeks, study abroad opportunities with comparative data taken from both semester aboard studies and oncampus cultural studies. The research was mixed methods using the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) for quantitative sensitivity development measurement and qualitative interviews to place that data in context for improved understanding. The quantitative data measures cultural sensitivity along a continuum defined by the Developmental Model for Intercultural Sensitivity (DMIS). The continuum identifies intercultural sensitivity from the strong ethno-centric position of denial through the culturally normative position of minimization to a fully integrated, ethnorelative sensitivity position. Data have been gathered from undergraduate students participating in courses with preand post-testing using the IDI. On returning to campus, students met for focus group interviews where they could discuss their experiences and qualitative data could be evaluated for contextual framing. Data were gathered from courses offered over a three year period. The initial research purpose was to determine if change is taking place on an individual basis. The data reveal a group dynamic rather than individual change. This group dynamic existed in both short-term and semester long scenarios that were evaluated. This dynamic was not found in the on-campus courses. Qualitative data help to understand these patterns and differences.