Assessing the Field Course Experiential Learning Model: Transforming Collegiate Short-term Study Abroad Experiences into Rich Learning Environments

Abstract

This paper reports assessment findings from three cohorts of students participating in a short-term study abroad field course experience in Costa Rica, entitled, Environmental Science and Conservation Biology: A Field Study in the Biodiversity of Costa Rica, using the ‘Field Course Experiential Learning Model’ as its pedagogical framework. It describes cognitive and affective learning gains of students participating in the course.