Abstract

In the last 60 years, the relationship between the United States and the Middle East has become increasingly important to policy makers, academics, business people, and the general population. Particularly in the fallout of the events of September 11, 2001, both the U.S. government and the public have acknowledged an immediate need for a deepening of American understanding of the people, languages, and culture of the Middle East/North Africa (MENA). During the last decade, one significant way in which Americans have gained in-depth knowledge about this region has been through participation in Study Abroad (SA) programs. Data from the Institute for International Education show the number of U.S. undergraduate students studying abroad in the MENA is increasing, yet there is almost no literature related to SA in this region. The purpose of this study is to 1) characterize students who study in the Middle East/North Africa region and 2) assess the factors which cause some study abroad students to choose this less common region rather than a more common destination. In order to investigate the motivations, attitudes, and aspects of human capital which influence study abroad destination choice, this research examines seven main factors: exposure to international issues, attitudes about national security, career intentions, language exposure, previous international travel experience, risk propensity, and scholarship support. This research analyzes data from a cross-sectional survey and focus groups of current U.S. undergraduate study abroad students. Despite the large amount of research on outcomes and educational approaches used in SA in general, there is little literature which addresses influences on destination choice in SA. Given the increasing trend in SA programs in MENA region, this analysis provides insight into the multitude of factors which are leading students to this area of the world.

Department

Middle East Studies Center

Degree Name

MA in Middle East Studies

Graduation Date

6-1-2011

Submission Date

March 2011

First Advisor

Rizzo, Helen

Second Advisor

Lesch, Ann

Extent

NA

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Library of Congress Subject Heading 1

Foreign study -- United States -- History.

Library of Congress Subject Heading 2

Middle East -- Foreign relations -- United States.

Rights

The author retains all rights with regard to copyright. The author certifies that written permission from the owner(s) of third-party copyrighted matter included in the thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study has been obtained. The author further certifies that IRB approval has been obtained for this thesis, or that IRB approval is not necessary for this thesis. Insofar as this thesis, dissertation, paper, or record of study is an educational record as defined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 USC 1232g), the author has granted consent to disclosure of it to anyone who requests a copy.

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval

Not necessary for this item

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