Act Local or Global?: Comparing Student Experiences in Domestic and International Service-Learning Programs

Authors

Elizabeth K. Niehaus, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Léna Kavaliauskas Crain, University of Maryland

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

2013

Citation

Michigan Journal of Community Service Learning, Fall 2013, pp.31-40

Comments

Copyright 2013 Niehaus and Crain

Abstract

International service-learning (ISL) is a popular way to facilitate student growth in the areas of cross-cultural learning and civic engagement. However, many have questioned whether international trips provide any added value compared to domestic service-learning. Using the context of Alternative Break programs, this study compares student experiences in similarly structured international and domestic service-learning programs. In doing so, it contributes to the larger debate over the relative costs and benefits of international service- learning programs.