Study Abroad
Study Abroad
Today’s interconnected globe demands that students develop intercultural competence and skills in preparation for the 21st century challenges. In response to this challenge studying abroad is a has become global phenomenon, with learners crossing continents, oceans and countries to obtain the best education possible. Many studies exploring this phenomenon report that it promotes positive experiences and can have several benefits in language development, cultural awareness, confidence and friendship (Dwyer & Peters, 2004). Despite the numerous benefits, study abroad is not a one-size-fit-all program. Some learners feel negative experiences due to cultural shock or difficulties adapting. This essay will attempt to define what is study abroad and explore its impact on helping students develop the required competencies. This paper will discuss three texts that have investigated study abroad and its impact on student in relation to language development, personal and intellectual development and cross-cultural awareness (Dwyer & Peters, 2004; Kenny, 2019; STUDY ABROAD, 2018)
Study abroad is often a university-run program that allows a learner to live and attend university in a foreign country (Study Abroad, 2018). Usually it involves exchange student program between two universities or more. Study abroad programs range from taking courses to interning and volunteering but the academic, intercultural and personal competencies remain the same. The duration also varies from one semester to multiple semesters. Study abroad gives learners the opportunity to gain competence and skills to face challenges of diversity in the global world.
Proponents of study abroad concur that the development of intercultural awareness and competence is instrumental to the success of students seeking to compete in the global market. A study done by Dwyer and Peters (2004) surveyed alumni who studied abroad from 1950 to 1999 to investigate the outcomes on academic, personal and professional life. The results showed that study abroad experience positively impacts on the students’ personal development and values, such as self-confidence. The respondent reported that study abroad experience impacted their knowledge of another culture, ability to acclimatize diverse workplace environments, self-awareness, and tolerance of ambiguity. This suggests that abroad study does benefit students participating in it.
Students who plan study abroad anticipate positive and glamorous experience in the foreign country. While they are certain to experience these moments, unprepared students end up disappointed when reality hits them. Cultural shock and language barriers impede their ability to adapt and enjoy their stay. A sudden shift in culture causes culture shock resulting in the feeling of anxiety, frustration and homesickness (Kenny, 2019). Kenny report that when international students find themselves in unfamiliar educational contexts, they struggle to adapt and adjust to reality. For example, when foreign students are unfamiliar with instructional methods, mode of study or educational expectations, they feel a considerable amount of stress and anxiety even in circumstances where they are carrying out the most basic of tasks. International students who are at risk for severe culture shock are those who mostly converse in their native language and socialize with students from their own country (Kenny, 2019). This suggests that universities and administrators that implement abroad study program should help better prepare students who participate in these programs. Otherwise, the positives of the study abroad outweigh the negatives.
References
DWYER, M. & PETERS, C. (2004). The Benefits of Study Abroad. Transitions Abroad, 27(5), 56-57
KENNY, A. (2019). Is Study Abroad for everyone? Journal of Intercultural Education, 18(4), 87-93
STUDY ABROAD. (2018). What is study abroad? Retrieved on May 26, 2021 from: https://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-study-abroad-definition-benefits.html
