Advancing Global Cultural Competencies: International Service Learning Within NASPAA Member Programs

Abstract

This article posits international service learning (ISL) as a pedagogy that supports internationalization in the field of public affairs and one known to advance global cultural competency in other professions. We present a baseline study of the extent to which ISL is being made available to master’s students in NASPAA member programs, and the extent to which existing programs are responding to key challenges of ethics and assessment. The exploratory analysis shows a lack of clear understanding of ISL in professional public affairs education and very few ISL programs being offered in the field. Among the programs that do exist, there is a commitment to ethical practices and to creative approaches to overcoming challenges. However, these programs have yet to apply systematic assessment, particularly in evaluating their contributions to global cultural competencies. We conclude with a series of recommendations targeted to public affairs faculty, program directors, and NASPAA.

Keywords:

• International service learning
• global cultural competencies
• professional education
• exploratory research

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Susan Appe

Susan Appe is assistant professor of public administration at the College of Community and Public Affairs at Binghamton University, State University of New York. Her research centers on government-nonprofit relations, the evolution of the nonprofit sector in developed and developing countries, and the implications of international service learning in public affairs education.

Nadia Rubaii

Nadia Rubaii is associate professor of public administration in the College of Community and Public Affairs at Binghamton University, State University of New York. Her research examines issues of diversity with an emphasis on enhancing cultural competence in professional public service. Her research also examines the challenges of applying U. S.-based standards of educational quality in a comparative context, with a particular focus on Latin America.

Kerry Stamp

Kerry Stamp is associate director for study abroad in the Office of International Programs at Binghamton University, State University of New York, where she is also a doctoral student of public affairs. Her research areas of interest include diversity and inclusion in study abroad, and global service learning.