CIEE Annual Conference 2012

Over the course of the last decade, discussions about China’s impact on the global economy have assumed a tremendous significance, for the world at large and for the field of education abroad. During this period, the number of American students studying abroad in China increased almost four-fold, and China is now their most popular destination outside Europe. Students representing a diversity of academic disciplines are now studying in China and key institutions—from colleges and universities to the U.S. Government—are developing China specific programs that address the interests of this engaged and expanding community of young scholars. At the same time, Chinese students are studying abroad in record numbers and now represent America’s largest group of international students.

This year in Shanghai, we will examine how we should educate students so they can flourish within a global economy undergoing historic transformation. We’ll examine a series of vital questions, including:

How can study abroad prepare students—especially those in the professional fields? How can programs in less traditional destinations accommodate students majoring in math and sciences? Should study abroad become an academic requirement? What are the traditional barriers facing students considering study abroad, and how can those barriers be eliminated? Should language study be a requirement for students to develop the critical multicultural leadership skills needed today?