Year of Award
2013
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Type
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Degree Name
Interdisciplinary Studies
Department or School/College
Interdisciplinary Studies Program
Committee Chair
Udo Fluck
Commitee Members
Gyda Swaney, Cheryl VanDenburg, Aaron W. Andreason, Darrell Stolle
Keywords
Cross-cultural adjustment, Grounded Theory, Interdisciplinary Studies, Qualitative Case Study, Reentry Shock, Reverse Culture Shock
Publisher
University of Montana
Abstract
Reentry Shock had been studied through psychological symptoms and inter-relationship problems. Previous research also focused on quantitative data of post-experience questionnaires. This dissertation examines how reentry support programs help students during the reentry process and how participants integrate the study abroad experience into their academic careers. A case study methodology was employed and qualitative data was gathered from eight students who volunteered to participate in two 90 minute workshops and an individual interview. A grounded theory approach was used to analyze the data with NVivo. Thematic analysis revealed a reentry process where students became aware of: a) the different ways they changed and reacted to changes in their sense of self, b) changes in their language use, c) their use of coping strategies, and d) how they incorporated the experience in their present educational journeys and future careers. Overall, participants' responses revealed a need for an opportunity and a place where returning students can validate both their study abroad and reentry experiences.
Recommended Citation
Arouca, Raquel Alexandra, "A qualitative study of returning study abroad students: The critical role of reentry support programs" (2013). Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers. 33.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/etd/33
© Copyright 2013 Raquel Alexandra Arouca