Enhancing Student Development Through a Virtual Study Abroad Business Course: A Proposed Design for Global Experiential Learning

Abstract

Study abroad programs represent an effective way to enhance student learning and development in business higher education, especially in international business, marketing, and trade. However, in the face of disruptors and barriers that affect a student’s ability to travel internationally, virtual study abroad (VSA) programs can be a more accessible alternative to achieving comparable outcomes. This paper presents a purposeful design for VSA programs with comprehensive goals of students’ personal, cultural, and professional development. Our study provides measurement and analysis of their effectiveness and demonstrates notable improvement across twelve essential facets of personal, cultural, and professional learning objectives among participants engaged in a virtual, project-based study abroad program. These findings underscore the significance of VSA programs and advocate for their continued inclusion in university curricula.

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