Abstract
This paper aims to examine if participating in a short-term study abroad programme would make an effect on its participants’ English proficiency and affective variables. Among the undergraduate/graduate students from Seikei University who took part in an English language programme at the University of Edinburgh, U.K. for 3 weeks, 19 students cooperated with pre/post surveys. Analysis is based on the data collected through CASEC (Computerized Assessment System for English Communication), questionnaires and follow-up interviews including speaking sessions. The result shows that after their studying-abroad experience (a) the participants’ English speaking proficiency becomes slightly improved and (b) that their self-evaluations on their English language abilities, especially on their productive skills, tend to become higher. It is also found (c) that they are likely to have more incentive for improving their English language skills and (d) that they become more active or less hesitated in expressing their thoughts and feelings, irrespective of their language choice. It is thus indicated that a short-term study abroad is effective in improving participants’ English language skills and changing their attitudes towards language learning as well as social interaction.
