By Liz Hollingworth, professor and director of the College of Education Center for Evaluation and Assessment

The College of Education Center for Evaluation and Assessment conducted an evaluation of the faculty-led study abroad program India Winterim in the 2017-18 session. Students who participated were asked to complete a pre-trip survey in December and a post-trip survey when they returned in January.

Of the 105 UI students who completed the pre-trip survey, 75% of them had left the U.S. before, and 97% said they signed up because it “sounded like an interesting experience.” When asked what they were looking forward to most, one respondent wrote, “The travel, the food, and the experience of living in another culture.  I am also interested in the research I will be conducting and its ties to my research in Iowa.” Another said, “ I've wanted to visit India for a long time, and this program sounded very appealing not just for visiting India, but also for learning important skills, as well.”

After the trip, 91% of students said they would definitely recommend the study abroad course to other students. What is more, 97% of them reported that the experience met their expectations.