Does Language Matter? The Impact of Language of Instruction on Study Abroad Outcomes

Abstract

Study abroad is a holistic educational experience that affords participants opportunities to develop new academic interests, participate in academic internships, establish friendships with host country nationals, explore a new culture, expand their worldview and sense of self, as well as improve their target language skills. This article presents a study that aims to demonstrate that the full range of study abroad language environment models all provide valuable experiences with lasting longitudinal benefits for study abroad participants.