Initial Student Perception of the Benefits of Participation on an International ASC Competition Team

Heather Yates, EdD
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK

Blake Wentz, PhD
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Milwaukee, WI

Sreemala DasMajumder
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK

The construction industry is becoming more diverse and global in terms of the project workforce.  There is a significant need for universities to provide educational opportunities for students in order to prepare them to operate in a global market.  Currently, there are limited opportunities to gain an international experience in construction management programs in the U.S., with most being limited to a study abroad program.  But the advent of the International ASC Student Competitions has opened new opportunities for students to engage in a collaborative team and gain exposure to internationalization in construction.  This paper surveyed students from two such teams to determine their perceptions of the experience, with all students indicating the benefits far outweigh the challenges of being on such a team.  These initial perceptions point to further study the significance of these international competition teams in terms of increasing student experiences abroad.

Key Words:  Global; International Collaboration; Study Abroad; Student Experiences; Student Competition

EasyChair Paper (PDF)