A case study on perspectives of chaperone roles in short-term study abroad

Abstract

This study examined the role of chaperones in short-term study abroad program. Japanese university students visited Manila for 10 days in which they received credit for their experience. This study examined how the chaperones viewed their perspective and also how students viewed the chaperone’s role. In addition, the study applied the Standards of Good Practice (Forum on Education Abroad) to evaluate the administrative perspective of the program. The qualitative results indicated that the both the chaperone and students viewed the chaperone as someone who had information about the program and could use that information effectively to ensure a protective environment of success. The administrative perspective analysis indicated where the program could enhance support for the chaperone. This study’s value is that it highlights chaperones’ perspectives which have been overlooked in research. Moreover, the study reveals how administrators could incorporate the chaperones perspectives more effectively in the study abroad program.