ERIC Number: EJ1442138
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024-Oct
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0092-055X
EISSN: EISSN-1939-862X
Available Date: N/A
Doing Sociology across Borders: Student Experiences and Learning with Virtual Exchange in Large Introductory Sociology Classes
Eric R. Wright; Day Wong; Waqar Ahmad; Rafia J. Mallick
Teaching Sociology, v52 n4 p323-335 2024
Virtual exchange programs represent a relatively novel approach designed to foster a more global perspective and promote discipline-specific learning; however, this approach has not been widely adopted in sociology. This article reports findings on student experiences and learning in a virtual exchange program involving two large introductory sociology classes in Hong Kong and Atlanta. A postsurvey invited students to reflect qualitatively on their experiences, and six major themes emerged from the data: (1) global application of sociological knowledge, (2) social and cultural relativism, (3) breaking the shell and gaining intellectual and social flexibility, (4) social networking opportunities, (5) challenges and adjustments, and (6) keeping contact beyond school. Based on our experience and the students' feedback, we conclude that virtual exchange is an effective pedagogical approach for internationalizing sociology curricula, enhancing intercultural competency, and deepening students' understanding of core sociological concepts.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Global Approach, Sociology, Student Experience, Introductory Courses, Virtual Classrooms, International Educational Exchange, Moral Values, Validity, Cultural Awareness, Interpersonal Competence, Barriers, Peer Relationship, Social Networks, Public Colleges, Universities, College Students, Electronic Learning, Student Attitudes
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Hong Kong; Georgia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A