Understanding Engagement of Japanese University Students in an International Virtual Exchange. An Intervention Study

2023 Fiscal Year Research-status Report

• Project/Area Number: 23K02554
• Research Institution: Future University-Hakodate
• Principal Investigator: Dominic Bagenda 公立はこだて未来大学, システム情報科学部, 准教授 (90552050)
• Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha): Ruthven Stuart 公立はこだて未来大学, システム情報科学部, 准教授 (40278148) ; Adam Smith 公立はこだて未来大学, システム情報科学部, 准教授 (70613644) ; Johnson Andrew 公立はこだて未来大学, システム情報科学部, 准教授 (90551937)
• Project Period (FY): 2023-04-01 – 2026-03-31
• Keywords: Virtual Exchanges / Engagement

Outline of Annual Research Achievements

Informed by the Integrated Behavior Model (IBM), we investigated for metrics that predict low behavioral engagement during the first 3 weeks of an eight-week second-language (L2) Virtual Engagement (VE) program. Metrics studied included learning management system (LMS) activity logs, a language proficiency test, university records and predispositions to transformative learning experiences. We found that distal determinants of behavior in the IBM (such as group behavior and gender) moderately predicted behavioral engagement . Contrary to expectations, language proficiency did not uniquely predict behavioral engagement in the L2 VE.

Current Status of Research Progress

2: Research has progressed on the whole more than it was originally planned.

Reason

Data for the first year was collected as expected. Determinants of behavioral engagement were identified. Unfortunately, intervention design faced challenges as some aspects of the virtual exchange were changed to meet participant needs.

Strategy for Future Research Activity

Collection of data for the second year and intervention testing will proceed. Dissemination of results will also commence.

Causes of Carryover

Funds for intervention design were not fully utilized due to unexpected changes in the Virtual Exchange. In the second year design will progress and the funds for design will be used as initially planned.