The impact of a one-term international experience in terms of reading and vocabulary development
What is it about?
This study investigates the potential benefits of participating in an international experience in terms of L2 reading and vocabulary development. In particular, it investigates a group of Catalan/Spanish bilinguals, learners of English as a second language, who were studying at university and participated in a semester-long study abroad experience in an Anglophone country. Findings suggest that some areas will benefit from such stays to a greater extent (L2 reading comprehension and receptive vocabulary) than others (L2 reading fluency and productive vocabulary). And that the students' pre-departure level can influence their outcomes.
Why is it important?
It is important to know the real impact of studying abroad considering the high numbers of people who enrol in one of such stays every year. Our findings show that a study abroad experience will have different impacts on the different skills.