Obtaining a ‘Global Lens’ through International Service Learning: A Framework for Family Science Courses

To strengthen academic and personal development among future professionals, scholars across academia are encouraging participation in study abroad and service learning courses. Faculty in some disciplines have combined these two pedagogical approaches as International Service Learning (ISL). The ISL approach may be particularly beneficial for Family Science students preparing to become globally oriented Certified Family Life Educator scholars (CFLEs). Based on calls from CFLEs for increased student real-world experience serving diverse, cross-cultural populations, this manuscript provides a Family Science ISL framework. Using examples from this framework, the paper discusses applicable CFLE core competencies and makes recommendations for future course replication.