Challenging The Deficit Approach to Assessing Study Abroad at Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Nov 9, 2022
3:45 pm-5:00 pm

Challenging The Deficit Approach to Assessing Study Abroad at Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have been engaged in study abroad decades. Like other institutions, HBCUs offer a variety of options for students studying abroad to locations around the world, while seeking to obtain a degree. More HBCU students are receiving study abroad scholarships, participating in internships around the world, and faculty-led program options are increasing.  

However, much of the study abroad literature at HBCUs focuses on barriers that prevent students from participating as compared to other institutions. This deficit approach within literature does not provide an accurate assessment of the work that is being done. Referring largely to content within the book “The Half Yet to Be Told: HBCUs and Study Abroad,” as a framework, this session will highlight the extraordinary and innovative contributions of HBCUs study abroad. Special emphasis will be on historical perspectives of global education, opportunities for global engagement, viewpoints from students, faculty, staff, and alumni, providers’ perspectives, and empirical studies. 

  • Andre P. Stevenson, Elizabeth City State University
  • Vivian Shannon-Ramsey, Bowie State University
  • Stacy Benjamin, Director, Professional Development 
  • Terry Lewis II, CIEE