A Case for Experiential Learning: Using Central Europe as a Classroom

Authors

  • Kathleen W. Wates
  • C. Michael Ritchie

Abstract

With the evolution of emerging economies, especially in Central Europe, teaching the global aspect of business is becoming increasingly important to assure that students are prepared for positions in companies that have interests in the global market. One method of teaching international business that has proven to be successful is the study abroad programs that are offered by many universities. This paper focuses on student perceptions of a study abroad program and how their perceptions of international business and culture vary from what they expected to find and what they actually found during the exposure to the foreign culture. Students were given pre-tests and post-tests as to their perceptions of business, cultural, and other environmental differences that they would face in a study abroad program . These changes in perceptions can be used to better prepare students for the study abroad experience and enable them to enhance their learning experiences. They can also be used to help faculty better prepare the students for the study abroad experience.

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Published

2014-01-10