El impacto de género en las experiencias de estudiantes norteamericanos en Ecuador = The impact of gender on the experience of U.S. college students in Ecuador

Abstract

The Impact of Gender on the Experience of U.S. College Students Abroad in Ecuador is a mixed-design study of 31 male and 31 female U.S. study abroad college students in Ecuador. Cross-cultural experiences affect international students differently, resulting in a variety of outcomes. The purpose of this study was threefold: 1) Identify the differences between male and female international students' experiences; 2) Measure how students’ global perceptions, interpersonal skills, and personal development change after 12 weeks into the study abroad experience; and 3) Suggest ways that study abroad programs can better prepare, orient, and support international students. Participants were given a survey to complete upon arriving in Ecuador, and another 12 weeks later. Furthermore, an institutional perspective from qualitative interviews with the USFQ international studies staff: 1) highlights perspectives on the concerns and problems students face while studying abroad in Ecuador, 2) and discusses gender differences in international students from their perspective that they witness; and 3) make suggestions as to how international student departments can prepare, orient, and support their students more efficiently. This study identifies how gender impacts U.S. students' study abroad experiences in Ecuador. The findings show that international students benefited from studying in Ecuador by developing their conflict management and coping skills. Unmet expectations and goals 12 weeks into the semester include making friends with Ecuadorians, reaching a proficiency level of Spanish, becoming academically successful, and understanding global issues and concerns better; students' desire to learn about Ecuador also diminished.