The experiences of student exchange program participants: a phenomenological study

Abstract

Each year universities send students abroad to participate in student exchange programs. There is very little research on what happens to these students as a result of their experiences, especially in a Canadian context. The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of students who have participated in a student exchange program and what they learned through those experiences. Using a phenomenological approach, data was collected through questionnaires and interviews with returned exchange students. The exchange program provided a transformative learning experience for students, and also an opportunity to learn about other cultures as well as their own culture. This study provides insight into the student exchange experience in a Canadian context, an area where there is currently very little literature available. This study also presents some implications for practice and for further research.