The Impact of Study Abroad and Student Engagement on World Language Learning

• In Event: International Education, Environments, and Experiences

Abstract

This study examines the impact of studying abroad (SA) on functional world language (WL) proficiency. Because so many SA programs are now of short duration, we consider student engagement (“deep learning”), rather than elusive cultural immersion, as a factor that may mediate the effect of SA on WL learning. Seventy-six students took WL classes abroad or on-campus during a 3-4 week session. SA students showed steeper increments in both engagement and WL proficiency. Indeed on-campus learners' engagement was flat. Engagement did moderate the effect of SA on WL learning, but contrary to expectation, a direct path from SA was of equal magnitude. Results document that even short-term SA engages students in high impact activities that may affect WL learning outcomes.

Authors

• Rachel Anne Burns, University of Georgia - Athens

• Donald Rubin, University of Georgia

• Michael Tarrant, University of Georgia - Athens