Outbound Student Mobility Pilot Project (2020-21)

CALAREO has been awarded a Consortium grant from the Government of Canada’s Outbound Student Mobility Pilot Program for a project entitled “Understanding barriers to student participation in outbound mobility to Latin America.”  The study seeks to understand the limited participation of Canadian students in outbound mobility programs such as study abroad or international research internships. Anecdotal information suggests students face barriers to participation from institutional structures and policies within our own institutions. Further, as a nontraditional destination, lack of familiarity with Latin American countries and misinformation may be barriers. Data is needed to identify strategies that will motivate and enable students to take advantage of mobility opportunities.  CALAREO will conduct a survey of its member students to identify barriers to student participation in mobility programs with Latin America, to improve program design and supports for low-income students, students with disabilities, and indigenous students (underrepresented groups), develop promotional strategies, and ultimately increase outbound mobility to Latin America.