The first question we should ask is why we should study current trends. Aside from stimulating the mind or merely piquing one’s curiosity, an examination of such trends can give us a snapshot of today’s most recent perspectives. Such a study can also be used as a roadmap for understanding the changing world we are entering and give us a glimpse toward the future.
At first glance, these trends mirror the major themes shaping the way TCKs are growing up. Upon closer examination they reveal the need for more information, specifically for more research to gain a deeper understanding of the impact these trends are having. Hence, the focus of this paper is to summarize the “Top Eight Research Needs” for the purpose of gaining that deeper understanding.
Two major themes dominate the TCK landscape today. The first is the increasingly visible and important role that adult TCKs are playing in the public and private sectors, specifically in the areas of education, politics, and business. The second is the exponential growth of research and resources being produced in universities and by those working directly with these children, whether they are teachers of TCKs or consultants who prepare them for their transition abroad.
One shortcoming to this growth of research, however, is the separation that often exists among intercultural researchers. At present, the data and investigations of those in academia and those who work in the field might be seen as separate dots on a map as yet unconnected by roads. It is hoped that by building roads of communication, we can discover what data is available, clarify where gaps exist, and then outline what the present research needs are. Following such a method, we will be in a better position to coordinate and direct research that is most needed now. Dealing effectively with the research needs of the present, we will also be better prepared to deal with the needs of the future.
At first glance, these trends mirror the major themes shaping the way TCKs are growing up. Upon closer examination they reveal the need for more information, specifically for more research to gain a deeper understanding of the impact these trends are having. Hence, the focus of this paper is to summarize the “Top Eight Research Needs” for the purpose of gaining that deeper understanding.
Two major themes dominate the TCK landscape today. The first is the increasingly visible and important role that adult TCKs are playing in the public and private sectors, specifically in the areas of education, politics, and business. The second is the exponential growth of research and resources being produced in universities and by those working directly with these children, whether they are teachers of TCKs or consultants who prepare them for their transition abroad.
One shortcoming to this growth of research, however, is the separation that often exists among intercultural researchers. At present, the data and investigations of those in academia and those who work in the field might be seen as separate dots on a map as yet unconnected by roads. It is hoped that by building roads of communication, we can discover what data is available, clarify where gaps exist, and then outline what the present research needs are. Following such a method, we will be in a better position to coordinate and direct research that is most needed now. Dealing effectively with the research needs of the present, we will also be better prepared to deal with the needs of the future.
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