family life education

Assessing Couples Outcomes in a Student-Facilitated Marriage Enrichment Workshop

DOI: 10.26536/XFOI4761

Authors

  • Rachel Arocho, Utah Valley University
  • Joshua T. Brown, Utah Valley University
  • Aspen Jensen, Utah State University
  • Maleena Maxwell, Utah Valley University
  • Andrew Taylor, Utah Valley University
  • Latrisha Fall, Utah State University
  • David D. Law, Utah State University
  • Camile Harvey, Utah Valley University
  • Azul Martinez, Utah Valley University
  • Melanie Wolfe, Utah Valley University
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Abstract

Family practitioners come from many walks of life and may include students, provided they are sufficiently prepared or supported through hands-on learning experiences. In this study, we report the outcomes of community different-sex couples who participated in a free, six-week, student-facilitated Marriage Enrichment Workshop between 2015 and 2018, offered over distance via Interactive Video Conferencing. Data from n = 39 individuals (25 couples) indicated positive change during workshop participation regarding negative interaction, commitment, and sexual and emotional intimacy. At six months post-workshop, only change in negative interaction retained significance. No significant results were reported for overall marital satisfaction, and no effects of booster sessions were detected. This workshop showed slight positive gains for couples, a favorable outcome for an experience with dual goals of providing student practice and strengthening couple relationships in the community.

2023 Volume 27 Issue 3, , ,
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Challenges Experienced by Students during Study Abroad: Implications for Family Science Faculty

DOI: 10.26536/NOBD1239

Authors

  • Sarah Taylor, California State University, Long Beach
  • Tiffany L. Brown, California State University, Long Beach
  • Nilufer Medora, California State University, Long Beach
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Family science literature has documented the benefits of studying abroad on students’ overall development. However, research has focused less on the challenges that students experience while studying abroad. This study aimed to explore the challenges family science students experienced in a semester-long study abroad program. Qualitative data were collected from 80 students participating in the Semester at Sea study abroad program. Participants responded to an open-ended survey question. Researchers used qualitative content analysis techniques to analyze data and identify common themes. Six major themes emerged from the data. Students experienced: 1) cognitive challenges; 2) social challenges; 3) academic challenges; 4) cultural challenges; 5) logistical challenges, and 6) emotional challenges. Students reported challenges across a variety of domains during the study abroad voyage. Understanding these challenges experienced by students may help family science faculty know where study abroad students can be further supported. Faculty should emphasize students’ cognitive preparations and support students in processing their experiences throughout their study abroad program. Faculty should also prepare students to return home and manage the guilt they may experience.

2023 Volume 27 Issue 2, , , ,
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Pivoting from Face-to-Face Internships to Virtual Internships: Lessons Learned by Two Family Life Educators

DOI: 10.26536/SAQI8392

Authors

Helyne Frederick, PhD., CFLE
Yuliana Rodriguez, Ph.D., CFLE
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

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Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to highlight the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on a Human Development and Family Studies internship program. The paper recounts some of the steps taken by the program to respond to the change from face-to-face to virtual internships for ninety interns who were in education, health, and human services agencies. Included is a discussion of the triumphs and challenges faced by the faculty, internship sites, and students. Additionally, the paper addresses implications for supervising and planning for future internships.

2022 Volume 26 Issue 1, ,
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