Work

Individual differences and sociocultural gains in study abroad: A mixed-methods investigation of the ERASMUS context

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the role of multicultural personality traits, wellbeing, and initial English proficiency on sociocultural adaptation during an ERASMUS stay. The participants completed a test battery including the Multicultural Personality Questionnaire, the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, the Oxford Quick Placement Test, and the Sociocultural Adaptation Scale twice: once at pre-departure and once upon return. Additionally, a subgroup of participants was interviewed regarding their lived experiences and conceptualization of factors leading to sociocultural adaptation. The quantitative results indicated that those with higher initial English proficiency and wellbeing scores at pre-departure displayed stronger sociocultural adaptation at the end of their stay abroad. The qualitative analysis highlighted several individual and contextual factors, such as situated language use, and availability of community support crucially determining different participant rates of sociocultural adaptation. These results accentuate the importance of certain elements, such as language competence and academic integration for optimal study abroad gains.

Source: Research in Comparative and International Education

DOI: 10.1177/17454999251337343

Authors: Zeynep Köylü, Betül Bulut-Şahin

Institutions: University of Basel, TED University

Language: English

Topic: International Student and Expatriate Challenges

Subfield: Communication

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650