The Value of Short-Term Study Abroad: An Increase in Students' Cultural and Pragmatic Competency

The effect of studying abroad on students' language production has been extensively researched. However, a question that has not been addressed is whether study abroad programs lasting six weeks or less offer sufficient time and contact for students to demonstrate measurable development in their command of the language. The current investigation reveals the effects of a short-term study abroad program in Spain on students' recognition, comprehension, and production of region-specific linguistic forms. In this study, pre- and post-program survey data as well as observational data were gathered from a group of students during a four-week study abroad program in an effort to access their exposure to, and use of, the vosotros form.