ERIC Number: EJ789120
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007
Pages: 13
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1053-8259
EISSN: N/A
The Impact of Service-Learning on Ethnocentrism in an Intercultural Communication Course
Borden, Amanda Welch
Journal of Experiential Education, v30 n2 p171-183 Fall 2007
This study analyzes a project involving students enrolled in an intercultural communication class that employs service-learning. Participants were given the Generalized Ethnocentrism (GENE) scale developed by Neuliep and McCroskey at the beginning and conclusion of a semester of service-learning with a cultural group different than their own. Results indicate a significant decrease in ethnocentrism from the beginning to the end of the semester. Analysis of students' written reflections about their service experiences reinforces the conclusion that service-learning played a part in reducing ethnocentrism. Although further research is needed to provide a control for the manipulation, there is a preliminary indication that service-learning with diverse cultures may provide a type of consistent, deep, and meaningful contact that leads to lower levels of ethnocentrism.
Descriptors: Intercultural Communication, Ethnocentrism, Service Learning, Cultural Differences, Attitude Change, Student Attitudes, Course Content, College Instruction, Multicultural Education, Attitude Measures
Association for Experiential Education. 3775 Iris Avenue Suite 4, Boulder, CO 80301. Tel: 866-522-8337; Fax: 303-440-9581; e-mail: publications@aee.org; Web site: http://www.aee.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A