Prior Community Involvement and 'Israel Experience' Educational Tours


 

Publication Date: January 1999

Publisher: Hobbs the Printers Ltd.

Author(s): Erik H. Cohen

Research Area: Culture and religion; Education

Keywords: World Jews; Israel experience; Identity formation

Type: Report

Abstract:

The purpose of the Israel Experience program is to instill in Diaspora youth stronger ties with Israel and their Jewish identity. Almost all participants already have some connection with a Jewish community. The programme reinforces rather than radically change the attitudes and opinions held by the participants toward Israel and Judaism. There is a positive correlation between this prior affiliation and satisfaction with the programme. Community activities and formal Jewish schooling serve both as preparation for the educational tour and as a framework in which the experience can be understood and integrated.