This book is intended to introduce novice student researchers to second language acquisition in the study abroad learning environment. It reviews the existing literature and provides the emerging researcher an overview of the important factors to consider, informs them where to begin, and how to move forth an agenda for future research in this field. The book recognizes that aside from the academic advantages, study abroad programmes are an excellent tool for fostering extended and relevant interaction with native speakers. It provides reflection questions and activities, and guides the novice researcher in critically analysing existing research and to eventually carry out their own study. The book will be of use to beginning researchers who are new to linguistics in the areas of study abroad and second language acquisition.

Provides comprehensive coverage of the wide range of topics investigated in study abroad research Analyses what learners do differently abroad and how it may affect their acquisition of the target language Provides methodological guidelines for carrying out a study

Autorentext

Christina Isabelli-García is Professor and Chair of the Department of Modern Languages and Literature at Gonzaga University, USA. Christina teaches courses in Spanish, Applied Linguistics, and Sociolinguistics.

Casilde A. Isabelli is Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of World Languages and Literatures at the University of Nevada, Reno, USA. Casilde teaches courses in Spanish, Theoretical and Applied Linguistics, Service-Learning, and Teaching of Foreign Languages.

Inhalt

Chapter 1: What is Study Abroad?.- Chapter 2: What Theories, Perspectives, and Approaches are Used in Study Abroad Research?.- Chapter 3: What Differential Learning Factors Need to be Considered in Study Abroad Research?.- Chapter 4: What is the Impact of Study Abroad on the Interlanguage?.- Chapter 5: What Data Measures are Used in Study Abroad Research?.- Chapter 6: What Areas of Study Abroad Research Need More Attention?.