Inquiry of L2 learning and beyond  during study abroad : Preliminary study of Japanese university students’  in-class and out-of-class learning in the UK

鈴木, 栄, Bowen, Sally

There has been a significant increase in the number of Japanese students participating in study abroad （SA） programs in English-speaking countries. Students might have different reasons for studying abroad including second language learning, learning about other cultures, disciplinary learning and professional development. To help learners to enhance their learning outcomes, host institutions overseas and institutions in Japan can develop mutual understanding of learners’ perceptions toward actual learning happening overseas in order to know which activities can enhance their productive skills.Learning can occur anywhere in any form especially in the situation of SA. Therefore, this study aims to explore Japanese university students’ in-class and out-of-class learning activities in the UK to determine what activities could lead students to develop and change their thoughts on language learning and host cultures.Thirteen Japanese university students and twelve students from South Korea, France, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Iran, China and Italy participated in this study. A questionnaire was distributed to the students and a semi-structured interview was conducted with the Japanese students shortly before the end of the program. Questions were on students’ educational background, their future study and work plans, their in-class and out-of-class activities, improvement in their English language skills and thoughts. These outcomes were analyzed by two researchers （Japanese and British） comparing their observations of students’ progress and language improvement to synthesize the pedagogical implications of SA.The identified in-class activities which students found effective are summarized under broad-ranging categories: Expressing self in English, such as reflective journals, presentations and explaining own interests and opinions and learning strategies. Out-of-class activities include language socialization such as meeting up and traveling with flatmates, and social events organized by the university.The researchers’ reflections on effective learning activities, implications for study abroad program are discussed.

Inquiry of L2 learning and beyond during study abroad : Preliminary study of Japanese university students’ in-class and out-of-class learning in the UK

この論文をさがす

抄録

収録刊行物

キーワード

詳細情報詳細情報について

書き出し

問題の指摘