Open AccessStudy Abroad Strengths-Based Curriculum: Advancing Self-Reflection and Relationship-Building Leadership Skills
Author(s) -
Liz Moldenhauer,
Melissa Osland,
Theresa Waterbury
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
frontiers
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2380-8144
pISSN - 1085-4568
DOI - 10.36366/frontiers.v33i2.637
Subject(s) - curriculum , psychology , diversity (politics) , self reflection , pedagogy , study abroad , reflection (computer programming) , qualitative research , medical education , sociology , computer science , medicine , social science , anthropology , psychoanalysis , programming language
Immersion in a strengths-based, study abroad program provides extensive opportunity for leadership growth. Navigating the unknown adds to the challenge students experience during their student-organized activities. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how a strengths-based curricula design advanced the leadership competency levels of self-reflection and relationship building during a graduate, short-term study abroad program. The findings show that before and during the program, self-reflection led to thoughtful discussions, which led to valuing differences. Self-reflection contributed to deeper self-awareness of how an individual’s primary strengths and blind spots led to mutual respect. On-going mutual respect enhanced relationships through appreciation for diversity. The strengths-based knowledge aided in acknowledging and valuing differences in one another, which positively impacted relationships.