Ripples and reflections: long-term perceptions of in-country language study abroad programs in regional Australia (1995-2015)

The thesis explores perceived long-term influences of in-country language (ICL) study abroad programs. It examines two long-running ICL programs conducted in regional Australia between 1995 and 2015 at high school and university level. Perceptions of their long-term influences on individuals in terms of language learning, intercultural development and personal growth, and broader influences on families, institutions and communities are considered. The investigation presents a retrospective multiple case study from the perspectives of those involved, including students, host family members, teachers, administrative staff and institutional leaders. Through reflexive thematic analysis, qualitative data drawn from 86 surveys and 42 follow-up semi-structured interviews are used to develop the three themes which constitute the study’s research narrative. The dataset consists of the survey responses, interview recordings, transcripts, and annotated transcripts used to develop the study's themes.