The parallels between social group work practice and study abroad trips
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2026
Department/School
Social Work
Publication Title
Social Work with Groups
Abstract
Study abroad and other international group experiences with immersion components are rapidly growing in higher education. They provide opportunities for cultural learning and curricular enrichment as well as a rich relational opportunity for participants to experience the journey as part of a group. This article uses collaborative writing methods to scrutinize an international case study to illustrate how the theoretical group work lens of mutual aid groups can offer insights into study abroad programs and similar experiences. Recommendations are offered for leading international learning groups, including how to address sensitive topics, such as race, conflict, communication, fostering mutual aid, and positionality.
Link to Published Version
Recommended Citation
Moore, S., & Saldanha, K. (2026). The parallels between social group work practice and study abroad trips. Social Work with Groups, 49(2), 162–180. https://doi.org/10.1080/01609513.2025.2602922
Comments
K. Saldanha is a faculty member in EMU's School of Social Work.