Deconstructing underlying practices of short-term study abroad: Exploring issues of consumerism, postcolonialism, cultural tourism, and commodification of experience

Abstract

Short-term study abroad experiences are thought to provide students with opportunities to develop the skills needed to participate in an increasingly global world.  However, what is often ignored are the ways short-term programs promote consumerism, postcolonialism, cultural tourism, and commodification of experiences.  The authors will trouble the celebratory discourse of short-term study abroad and provide suggestions on how to promote more socially just short-term study abroad practices.