Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2018

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Bogotch, Ira

Abstract

This mixed methods study explored and measured the multi-dimensional construct of global-mindedness as it applies to the study abroad professional and defines the term study abroad professional. Hett’s (1993) Global-Mindedness Scale and the five dimensions of responsibility, cultural pluralism, efficacy, globalcentrism, and interconnectedness was utilized to determine the global-mindedness of study abroad professionals. Additionally, open and closed-ended questions were used to identify similarities across the study abroad professionals and to help define and give meaning to the term study abroad professional. Research findings lead to the identification of four themes. Theme one focused on characteristics that lend themselves to defining the term study abroad professionals. Theme two focused on the individual characteristics and their association with Hett’s five dimensions of global-mindedness. Qualitative data were used to support the various research questions whose answers became part of the working definition for a study abroad professional. Theme three focused on study abroad. And, theme four focused on evolving job announcements. International education, specifically study abroad, has become a specialized and recognized profession. What has emerged are specific academic requirements, professional training, and various professional and personal experiences being a requirement for entry into the field. Individuals entering the study abroad profession need to have an advanced degree, most likely in education or international/global studies (although other majors are acceptable), they will have studied, interned, volunteered, worked, or lived abroad, they will have good communication skills, be open-minded, organized, flexible, patient, empathetic, culturally sensitive, interculturally competent, and will have previous experience in the field. These findings have led to the definition of a study abroad professional. a study abroad professional is a globally-minded administrator or advisor with international and professional experiences, educational credentials, and personal traits that help them to relate to, communicate with, and support students, faculty, and staff, while fostering a safe study abroad environment that meets the needs of the institution and diverse student populations.

Extent

220 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Dissertation (Ph.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2018.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00013152

Format

pdf

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