Speaker
Description
Short-term study abroad (STSA) programs, typically defined as lasting 1 week to 3 months, are the most common program length for Japanese students (MEXT, 2024). This presentation will outline previous short-term study abroad research focusing on various aspects of cross-cultural understanding. Then, student feedback from two separate programs will be presented. Lastly, the presenter will outline and discuss similarities and differences between the two programs and previous research. Participants are encouraged to offer insight and comments from their own experiences.
Abstract section 4: Outcomes/results
Results were consistent with Anderson et al. (2005) and Gullekson et al. (2011). Students reported increased cultural intelligence. Participants in one program noted the “joy of interacting with local people”, while other participants developed meaningful bonds with their host families. One respondent, S3 in the six-week program, exhibited self-awareness. Their reflection echoes findings from Schenker (2019). However, contrary to findings in Coker et al. (2018) respondents explicitly mentioned that speaking with diverse students was “enjoyable because our lives and cultures were so different”, suggesting that even very short programs can catalyze the start of understanding others with diverse backgrounds.
Abstract section 5: References
Anderson, Philip H. Lawton, Leigh. Rexeisen, Richard J. Hubbard, Ann C. (2005), Short-term study abroad and intercultural sensitivity: A pilot study, International Journal of Intercultural Relations, Volume 30, Issue 4, 2006, Pages 457-469, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijintrel.2005.10.004.
Gullekson, N. L., Tucker, M. L., Coombs, G., Wright, S. (2011). Examining intercultural growth for business students in short-term study abroad programs: Too good to be true?. Journal of Teaching in International Business, 22(2), 91-106.
Coker , J. S. ., Heiser , E., & Taylor , L. (2018). Student Outcomes Associated with Short-term and Semester Study Abroad Programs. Frontiers: The Interdisciplinary Journal of Study Abroad, 30(2), 92–105. https://doi.org/10.36366/frontiers.v30i2.414
Abstract section 1: Relevance
Short-term study abroad programs, typically defined as lasting 1 week to 3 months, are the most common program length for Japanese students (MEXT, 2024). Despite this, minimal literature exists. The goal of this study is to add a Japanese context to previous international studies, such as Anderson et al. (2005) and Gullekson et al. (2011).
Abstract section 2: Contribution/research questions
Q1. Pre-departure classes, if you have any helpful suggestions or ideas for improvements, please share them.
Q2: While overseas, what did you like about the program?
Q3: While overseas, what would you have done differently?
Q4: While overseas, what left the strongest impression on you?
Q5: ① What did you learn through this overseas program? ② How will you apply it going forward?
Q6: What advice do you have for future participants?
Abstract section 3: Content/method
Students in two short-term study abroad programs were given a six-question survey upon their return to Japan. The questions covered the entirety of the programs, from pre-departure classes, their time overseas, and post-return classes.
| Title | A Comparative Analysis of Short-term Study Abroad Programs |
|---|---|
| Teaching Context | College and university education |