DEVELOPING THE CRITICAL THINKING THROUGH LEARNING EXPERIENCE AND TYPOLOGY: A MODEL OF STUDYING ABROAD IN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN HOCHIMINH CITY

Abstract

Experiential Learning and Learning Taxonomy have been well-known as effective learning models and processes through which students develop knowledge, skills, and values from direct experiences outside a traditional academic setting and learn in different contexts and environments. The paper examines the theories on Experiential Learning of Kolb and Bloom learning taxonomy. For more than 25 years, the School of International Training (SIT) programs in Vietnam have contributed to cross-cultural learning and mutual understanding between Vietnam and the United States. Each academic year SIT Vietnam mentors 20-35 U.S. undergraduate student participants in field-based, academic studies plus independent research or internship experiences as part of the Vietnam: Culture, Social Change, and Development semester program based in Ho Chi Minh City. The goals of this paper aim to discuss the challenges and opportunities of facilitating different forms of experiential learning and learning levels through SIT Study Abroad in Vietnam.

Keywords: experiential learning, learning taxonomy, study abroad, Vietnam