Sessions /
Study abroad: Interest, preferences and awareness #199

There has been an increased focus in Japan on the importance of studying abroad and the role such programs play in the internationalization of universities and the making of human resources able to play an active in a global community. The purpose of this study was to examine (a) student interest levels in studying abroad, (b) student perceptions and preferences relating to studying abroad, (c) student awareness of opportunities made available by universities, and (d) the influence of specific study abroad marketing materials. The study involved 64 (61% male and 39% female) first and second-year students from various majors studying in a compulsory English language program at a private university in southwest Japan. The English proficiency of the participants on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) ranged from elementary level A2 to upper-intermediate level B2. Participant online surveys included four items measuring student interest levels in studying abroad and open-ended questions relating to student preferences, perceptions, and awareness of study abroad programs. The findings from this study indicate that the majority of participants (61%) did want to study abroad; however, preferences, intent levels, and program awareness varied based on academic major and year. Participants (39%) that did not want to study abroad frequently noted the financial costs associated with studying abroad. Implications of these findings and related factors regarding studying abroad programs for university students and administrators will be discussed. Suggestions will be made concerning the promotion of study abroad programs in order to better raise awareness.