Expanding Access To Study Abroad Through Online Learning – CIEE x ASU Partnership
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CIEE recently hosted the CIEE Leading Change Series: Expanding Access Through Online Learning Workshop, in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU). The workshop convened partners from across the country to learn more about ASU’s innovative approach to online learning and how the CIEE-ASU partnership is opening access to study abroad for more students.
Over two days, participants explored ASU’s approach to online learning, from its extensive curriculum catalogue with 5,000+ courses to its integration of technology such as virtual reality, as well as the quality standards that have made ASU the gold standard for online education. Students taking ASU’s online courses are taught by the same faculty members who teach on campus and have full access to 24/7 student support services.
Partners saw firsthand how ASU delivers an enriching and academically immersive experience online that matches the quality of its in-person courses – expanding partners’ thinking on the capabilities of online learning. In fact, ASU faculty members have access to an innovative film studio that enables them to deliver online content in a compelling, engaging way to draw students in – much as they would in person.
Most, if not all, of higher education institutions offer some sort of online option. This is the future of global education, noted one conference attendee.
Participants also experienced Dreamscape Learn, ASU’s immersive VR tool that brings interactive storytelling to subjects ranging from chemistry to art history.
The CIEE team shared how ASU’s model has helped students overcome cost and curriculum barriers to study abroad opportunities, expanding access to traditionally underrepresented students. A higher percentage of Pell-eligible and first-generation students are taking ASU courses compared to their peers.
Thirty-seven percent of students taking ASU courses are Pell-eligible, compared to 20% of the overall CIEE student body. A similar pattern is also true among first generation students: 25% of students taking ASU courses identify as first-generation, compared to 15% of CIEE students overall. Business and STEM majors also represent the majority of students taking ASU courses online, illustrating how ASU helps to meet the rigorous course requirements of these majors.
During a panel discussion with ASU Global Flex Alumni, participants heard directly from students – all of whom participated in this ASU program because of the online course offering. Access to online courses for study abroad was critical for them to stay on track toward graduation.
For many students, ASU courses have been key in achieving their academic goals while studying abroad.
“Online classes allowed me to study abroad and stay on track toward graduation,” said Afsara Haque. A combined model of ASU online courses and in-person CIEE courses empowers students to choose the coursework that best aligns with their degree requirements – allowing them to study abroad and gain a life-changing experience without compromising their academic progress or graduation timeline.
“I learned how big the world is. By experiencing different perspectives, I improved my communication skills that I’ll be able to use with a variety of people and cultures,” said program alumna Simida Romanet.
Participants from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Carnegie Mellon University, College of Charleston, Columbia University, Fordham University, Merrimack College, University of St. Thomas, University of South Carolina, University of Washington, and University of Wisconsin-Madison left the workshop with actionable steps for fostering an institutional culture that is supportive of online learning, along with a clearer understanding of how CIEE and ASU can support their efforts moving forward.
To learn more about CIEE’s partnership with ASU, visit our website.