Digital Literacies and Study Abroad: A Review of Japanese University Students in Australia

Abstract

A study abroad experience represents a wonderful opportunity for foreign language learners to elevate their language proficiency and deepen intercultural understanding. In addition to the development of language skills, an important consideration for directors of contemporary pre- embarkation programs is the strengthening of students’ digital literacies so that they can effectively function in the foreign academic and social contexts. Considering the poor digital literacies reported among Japanese university freshmen, the researchers of this study questioned whether inferior digital literacies restricted their students’ one-year study abroad experience in Australia. If so, did it restrict access to or engagement with academic and social communities while studying abroad? Considering data received via surveys and focus group discussions with returnees, this report focuses on a review of students’ technology use and digital literacies integration while studying abroad in Australia. Important results include: digital literacies prior to embarkation are inadequate; computers were more frequently used in the study abroad context (Australian universities) compared to the Japanese university; and, minimal consideration is dedicated to developing digital literacies prior to the study abroad program.