Semester

Spring

Date of Graduation

2000

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design

Department

Agricultural & Extension Education

Committee Chair

Layle D. Lawrence.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which the International 4-H Program achieved its objectives regarding positive cross-cultural attitudes, life leadership skills, and host culture knowledge through the six-month International 4-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) Program. The population consisted of the twenty-one 1999 IFYE six-month representatives. A descriptive census survey was used to collect the data for the study. Each participant completed pre- and post-exchange evaluations while attending the program orientation and debriefing at the National 4-H Center. The major finding of this study was the representative's significant gain in host culture knowledge. The IFYE representatives' positive cross-cultural attitudes and perceptions existed before their exchange experience. The experience, however, results in greater appreciation for the United States, strengthens awareness of world issues, improves communication skills, and overcomes misperceptions about the host country. Representatives did develop their life leadership skills yet, not to the extent originally expected.

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