Study Abroad and the Spiral of Silence : Does Encouraging Participation Create Apprehension for Those Who Don't Participate?

Abstract

Research has shown that study abroad strengthens students' worldviews, reflective thought, and self-confidence (Kitsantas, 2004); accordingly, universities are placing greater emphasis on study abroad. However, little is known about the effect this increased emphasis has on those who do not study abroad. Using spiral of silence theory (Noelle-Neumann, 1974), this study investigates student participation in courses that invite discussion of international experiences to determine whether students who have not studied abroad experience communication apprehension (CA) as compared to those who have studied abroad.