Paper Title
COVID-19 AND THE IMPACT ON OUTBOUND STUDENT MOBILITY FROM THE UNITED STATES
Abstract
Abstract - This paper presents results of a research study examining the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic on U.S students’ interests in and concerns about studying abroad. This paper takes the perspective that the pandemic was a disruptive event with regard to student mobility and study abroad, and comparing students’ attitudes pre- and post-pandemic is important. There have been previous disruptive events over the past 30 years that are examined for context and comparison, particularly how much and how quickly U.S. education abroad participation resumed following previous events. Findings: compared with pre-covid students, post-covid students, particularly females, indicated a more serious attitude towards education abroad, seeking out more authentic and immersive experiences in their housing preference, and recognizing the advantages of education abroad for their academic majors and careers. At the same time, students have ongoing anxieties about the uncertainties of the experience, which could impact participation.
Keywords - Student Mobility, Education Abroad, Study Abroad, International Education, Covid-19, Pandemic, Student Engagement