Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Social Justice and Community Engagement
Faculty/School
Faculty of Arts
First Advisor
Robert Feagan
Advisor Role
Faculty Advisor
Abstract
Previous exploration of International Experiential Learning (IEL) programs has generally focused on the experience of Northern volunteers, without considering the outcomes in Southern host communities. Contemporary scholars raise serious concerns about potential harm being done in Southern host communities as a result of IEL programs that resemble historical colonialism. This study contributes to the growing body of research that addresses this gap in the understanding of Southern host community experiences. The results tell us that the host community members do not articulate negative experiences in the way that post-colonial scholars predict. The analysis of 23 interviews including host community members, NGO staff and community leaders suggests program changes that could improve learning outcomes, and challenge North-South structural inequality.
Recommended Citation
Boylan, Mike, "Host Community Impacts: Learning From the Experience of Hosting International Volunteers in El Barrial, Suchitoto, Getsemani and San Miguel, El Salvador" (2019). Theses and Dissertations (Comprehensive). 2187.
https://scholars.wlu.ca/etd/2187
Convocation Year
2019
Convocation Season
Fall
Included in
Civic and Community Engagement Commons, Community-Based Learning Commons, Service Learning Commons