High school students who have experienced international education, who speak another language, and have lived in another culture are simply better prepared and have more options, both personally and professionally. All students and teachers benefit from developing their intercultural skills.
Assessment of the Impact of the AFS Study Abroad Experience
Recently, Dr. Mitchell Hammer of Hammer Consulting and American University completed a three-year, independent study of AFS Programs. According to Dr. Hammer, these findings confirm that international student exchange at the high school level plays a critical role in building bridges across cultural differences. Students return home with improved abilities to navigate across cultural boundaries.
The study findings show that the AFS Programs help young people:
- Become more competent in crossing cultures.
- Feel comfortable with people from around the world.
- Build stronger friendships with people from other cultures.
- Become fluent in the foreign language.
- Immerse yourself completely in your host culture.
International Research Community
Selected research by AFS:
1. Press Release Study Abroad Builds International Competence
2. Assessment of the Impact of the AFS Study Abroad Experience
3. An Overview of AFS Research: 1980-1993
