Christian Formation
We are entering a post-secular age in American higher education. This poses tremendous challenges to us as a private Christian university. The integration of faith & Learning is even more important within a cross-cultural setting and should, therefore, be high on our priority list. Our first and only allegiance is to Jesus Christ. With this as our basis, we offer not simply an experience of a lifetime but an experience that will change how we live. As examples of learning outcomes, students should:
- Understand one’s identity in Christ.
- Understand the important faith and belief systems of the region.
- Experience God within a different cultural context.
- Gain an understanding of the universal church and the Kingdom of God.
Cultural Connection
We must learn to appreciate the cultures of other people. This appreciation stems from a love for them as human beings. To enhance our ability to function effectively within a global context. As examples of learning outcomes, the students should:
- Get immersed within the community during the time you are there.
- Appreciate cultural features, commonality of humanity and uniqueness.
- Deepen awareness of one’s culture, biases, stereotypes, and ethnocentrism.
- Recognize language barriers and cultural communication characteristics.
- Identify and describe globalization, integration, and the causes of conflict.
- Think critically about the intersections of race, gender, sexuality, class, and ethnicity.
Relational Development
In purposeful travel, student relationships are developed purposefully with all team members. Faculty should help students connect with each other, emphasizing Christ-like characteristics. Scripture serves as the basis to help build character and implement wise student choices. This helps create meaningful friendships and team cohesiveness that will serve them well during struggle. As examples of learning outcomes, students should:
- Develop new friendships and professional relationships within the class.
- Understand the interdependent nature of teams.
- Understand and recognize relationship building in a multicultural context.
- Share things learned while on a study abroad experience with friends, family and classmates.
- Develop and increase commitment to service at home and globally.
Academic Enrichment
Compromising academics for any reason is not God-honoring. The experience should include appropriate research and study of subject matter, place-as-text visits, and active participation with locals. Academic travel is not a mere sightseeing trip. It is purposeful travel with clear learning objectives that is honoring to God. As examples of learning outcomes, students should:
(It is important to distinguish between “multicultural awareness” and “multicultural competence.” Multicultural competence refers to individuals’ external behaviors when living in a foreign cultural context. In contrast, multicultural awareness refers to the developmental process that dictates the degree of an individual’s ability to deal with cultural differences. An individual’s multicultural awareness is the worldview that establishes how he or she experiences or processes cultural differences.)
- Global mindedness
- Multicultural awareness.
- Multicultural competence
- Autonomy or self-efficacy