Dr. Beverly Moser
Professor, Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures
Student and Faculty Excellence (SAFE) fund recipient
Project:
“The Impact of Language Proficiency on Students’ Development of Intercultural Competence during Study Abroad”
Moser used SAFE grant funding to launch the first, small-scale study on how the language proficiency of students contributes to the development of intercultural competence (ICC) during study abroad experiences. Moser focused specifically on the German language for her research.
Part of Moser’s study involved pre and post assessments of intercultural competences as measured by the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI), which provides reports for each student with advice on how to continue developing their ICC. Ultimately, she hopes that the knowledge gained from her research will help educators structure experiences that optimize student fulfillment during international education. Appalaichain’s already successful study abroad programs will benefit from studies like this by helping educators and students understand the value of shorter versus long-term programs.
“I expect students to be better able to articulate the value of their study abroad experience to others, including their future employers,” said Moser.
Moser plans to later publish this research as part of a larger study in either the professional journal with Wiley Publishing, Die Unterrichtspraxis/ Teaching German, or Frontiers: The Interdisciplinary Journal of Study Abroad.
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About The SAFE Fund
Initially endowed by Hughlene and Bill Frank, the College of Arts and Sciences Student and Faculty Excellence (SAFE) Fund provides resources that can be used to support undergraduate, graduate and faculty experiences. The SAFE Fund provides funding for college priorities and opportunities that arise throughout the year. These unrestricted funds support student and faculty travel, publication support for faculty and student research opportunities. Learn more at: https://cas.appstate.edu/students/student-and-faculty-excellence-safe-fund.
About the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures
The Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures offers courses that enhance students’ understanding of other cultures and languages as well as their own, making them prepared for lifelong learning in a multicultural world. Learn more at https://dllc.appstate.edu.
Compiled and written by Barclay Ann Blankenship and Ellen Gwin Burnette
June 17, 2020
BOONE, N.C.
SAFE Grant Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Beverly Moser, Languages, Literatures and Cultures
Picture of Dr. Beverly Moser. Photo submitted