Scavenging for Connection: Promoting Social Opportunities for Students Studying Abroad in Prague

Howell, Peter; Taylor, Harrison; Hart, Sean; Lemieux, John

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Scavenging for Connection: Promoting Social Opportunities for Students Studying Abroad in Prague

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Students abroad often face social and cultural challenges that can cause loneliness and isolation, preventing them from realizing the full benefits of studying abroad. We collaborated with The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), a study abroad organization with locations around the world, to bolster their resources to help students facilitate social connections while abroad. We analyzed CIEE’s current programming by interviewing CIEE students and staff and surveying CIEE students. The resulting data, combined with our background research, informed the creation of scavenger hunt activities and self-managed social clubs for students. The scavenger hunts are gamified orientation activities that encourage cooperation and collaboration within smaller, randomized groups. The clues incorporate some basic utilities, such as pharmacies and grocery stores, but are primarily focused on providing interesting challenges that students can bond over. We conducted student pilot tests of the scavenger hunts and used their feedback to fine-tune the structure of the activity. The self-managed social clubs provide students with a forum to connect over similar interests and participate in activities together at their own pace through their study abroad. Implementing these resources will help CIEE with their continued efforts to help students navigate the social challenges of studying abroad.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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