Outcomes Assessment

Learning outcomes assessment is an essential element of the study abroad process. The primary reason for engaging in outcomes assessment is to increase student learning and development. (Deardorff, 2009, p. 221). The goal of Northeastern University is to examine both personal and academic outcomes. This allows the institution to understand what students are learning abroad and assists us in improving the study abroad experience for students Deardorff, D. K. (2009). How and why to use results of outcomes assessment. In Bollen, M. C. (Ed.) A guide to outcomes assessment in education abroad. Carlisle, PA: Forum on Education Abroad.

Learning Outcomes

Disciplinary Knowledge

• Synthesize academic/disciplinary concepts with real world phenomena
• Improve critical thinking skills
• Gain an international perspective of their career or discipline
• Gain an ability to translate theory into practice

Social and Emotional Growth

• Build independence
• Gain self-confidence
• Develop self-awareness
• Develop empathy
• Develop an increased tolerance for ambiguity

Global Awareness

• Develop awareness of the social, political and economic state of the local community
• Increase awareness of transportation, housing, employment, health care, education, climate and other realities beyond the U.S.
• Increase tolerance for living in regions of the world that have different physical environments

Cultural Consciousness

• Understand the nature of culture in general
• Understand their specific culture
• Become conscious of their own cultural perspective
• Engage diverse expressions of culture and belief
• Develop International goodwill and global citizenship
• Adapt effectively to cross-cultural settings

Language Learning

• Develop or improve language competency in speaking, listening, reading and writing
• Engage with others in the host language
• Understand the importance of language to the local community and society

Lifelong Learning

• Pursue continuous global learning
• Explore international opportunities after returning home
• Apply knowledge from abroad after returning home

Engagement

• Express a preliminary understanding of the different world-view of the local culture on a variety of religious, social and/or political issues
• Articulate an understanding of what it means to be the other, to be a stranger in a strange land
• Demonstrate a respect for the cultural differences that exist between the cultural values of the student and the local culture