Themes

Education Abroad
Language, Learners and Communities

Immersion abroad as the locus for implicit learning: How is language development possible in the absence of a focus on form.
Cultural and linguistic Immersion: The impact of social networks, host families, and local communities on students’ linguistic development.
Individual differences, including but not limited to linguistic background (heritage, L2), agency, anxiety, enjoyment, motivation, aptitude, identity, and attitudes.
Language learning outcomes: The long-term impact of immersion abroad on students’ linguistic and cultural competence.
Effective pedagogical approaches: Strategies, methodologies, and best practices for language learning and teaching in immersive contexts abroad.
Technology-enhanced language learning: Innovations and the integration of technology in language learning experiences while abroad.
Research methodology: Designs, constructs, and assessment.

Design and Evaluation: Designing, implementing, and evaluating study abroad language programs, with a focus on curriculum development.
- Direct matriculation, sheltered programs with/out language coursework
- Traditional study abroad, and online study abroad
- Internships, service learning, and research
Enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion: Students, faculty, and communities.
Economic, environmental and social sustainability abroad
Pre and Post study abroad: Advising, re-entry, and long-term results.
Effects of the Covid pandemic on education abroad
Language policy and program design: Best practices in program design, language course development, and the integration of language learning into study abroad curricula.
Partnerships and collaboration: Case studies on successful collaborations between universities, organizations, and institutions to enhance study abroad opportunities.

Intercultural/transcultural competence and communication: The expansion of students’ global awareness and perspective as a result of exposure to diverse worldviews and ways of life.
Civic engagement: International education that fosters civic engagement and affects positive changes in the community.
Self-Awareness and identity formation: The impact of studying abroad on students’ self-concept, values, and identity.
Independence and self-reliance: The development of a sense of independence, problem-solving skills, and self-reliance as students navigate their lives in a foreign country.
Resilience and coping strategies: How students cope with challenges, homesickness, and stress while studying abroad, and how these experiences contribute to building resilience.
Leadership and intercultural leadership: The development of leadership skills and the ability to work effectively in culturally diverse teams.
Career development: How study abroad experiences influence students’ career aspirations, job prospects, and employability.
Reflection and Journaling: The benefits of reflection and journaling as tools for personal development during study abroad.