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This study examined factors of decision making to participate in an exchange program by employing quantitative text analysis of interviews from six students. Co-occurrence network of frequently occurring words and correspondence analysis of words revealed differences and similarities in responses such as motivation of language learning and academic learning and mind set of exploring based on short-term study abroad program experience.
References
Cabinet Secretariat, Government of Japan. (2023). Japan-Mobility and internationalisation: Re-engaging and accelerating initiative for future generations (J-MIRAI) [Outline]. https://www.cas.go.jp/jp/seisaku/kyouikumirai/pdf/223042outline.pdf (Retrieved on August 4, 2025)
Ikeda, Y. (2011). Considering the significance and benefits of studying abroad: What can be gained through overseas study? Ryugaku Koryu Web Magazine, 7(4), 1–10.
Iwaki, N. (2014). A reflection on study abroad programs: Before, during and after the study abroad. Bulletin of the International Education & Exchange Center, 1, 27–32.
Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO). (2025). Results of the 2023 survey on the status of students studying abroad in Japan. https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/ja/_mt/2025/04/data2023n.pdf (Retrieved on August 4, 2025)
Kim, H. S. & Lawrence, J. H. (2021). Who studies abroad? Understanding the impact of intent on participation. Research in Higher Education, 62, 1039–1085. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11162-021-09629-9
Nicholls, S. (2018). Influences on international students choice of study destination: Evidence from the United States. Journal of International Students, 8(2), 597–622. https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v8i2.94
Okamura, I. (2022). Learning and conflicts through study abroad programs in the corona disaster: Through analysis of questionnaires and interviews with students returning from study abroad exchange programs. Tokyo Metropolitan University global forum, 1, 29–40.
Ota, K. (2022). Why do Japanese university students study abroad? Focusing on the Reproduction Strategy of “Global Human Resources.” The Journal of Educational Sociology, 110, 169–189.
Shimmi, Y. (2022). Pre-University experiences leading to mid- and long-term study abroad while enrolled in domestic undergraduate programs: Exploratory analysis based on a questionnaire. Journal of International Student Education, 27, 85–93.
Keywords
Co-occurrence network; Correspondence analysis; Short-term study abroad experience
Short summary
This study examined factors of decision making to participate in an exchange program by employing quantitative text analysis of interviews from six students. Co-occurrence network of frequently occurring words and correspondence analysis of words revealed differences and similarities in responses such as motivation of language learning and academic learning and mind set of exploring based on short-term study abroad program experience.
Abstract
Although Japanese government is promoting study abroad to develop global human resources who enhance international competitiveness (Cabinet Secretariat, 2023), the number of students who pursuing degree programs or exchange programs has been stagnant (JASSO, 2025). Factors influencing participation exchange programs have been discussed through both quantitative and qualitative analyses. Participants in exchange programs often possess global cultural capital (Ota, 2022; Shimmi, 2022), and they themselves advance their preparations with strong determination (Kim & Lawrence, 2021; Okamura, 2022). However, they commonly reported challenges with language proficiency and administrative procedures (Iwaki, 2014). and financial and time constraints can influence their decisions (Ikeda, 2011; Nichollas, 2018).
This study aimed to objectively analyze interview data from six undergraduate students using KH Coder’s co-occurrence network and correspondence analysis to identify factors influencing exchange program participation and procedural challenges. Specifically, it seeked to clarify how prior short-term study abroad experience affect participation and the preparation stage. This study leads longitudinal research to examine how organizations supporting student learning can address negative aspects and explore methods to encourage study abroad. As a case study from regionally based university with characteristics distinct from flagship or internationally excellent universities, this research holds high applicability for other regions within Japan. It can significantly contribute to verifying actual conditions and building strategic support systems for the internationalization of Japanese universities.
| Scheduling preference | Anytime on Saturday |
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| Title | Factors for exchange program participation using quantitative text analysis |