Connecting Future Teachers to Study Abroad

This study investigated the perceived benefits and barriers that impact study abroad for pre-service teachers and how participation might be increased. The literature review found that students have positive perceptions towards study abroad and that there are benefits for teachers who participate in study abroad. It also revealed that many barriers exist towards study abroad and that addressing financial concerns and having faculty support and encourage study abroad would help increase participation. A survey was designed for first year pre-service teachers at MNSU-Mankato to understand the pre-service teachers\u27 perceptions towards study abroad, the barriers that they have towards study abroad, and what they believe can be done to increase study abroad participation. The survey results demonstrated that pre-service teachers do have a positive perception toward study abroad and that financial concerns and lack of knowledge are barriers to study abroad. The research suggests that addressing financial concerns and educating pre-service teachers on the benefits of study abroad could increase study abroad participation