Australian and New Zealand University Students’ Participation in International Exchange Programs

Abstract

International education exchange is a growing phenomenon. In 2000, there were an estimated 1.8 million students studying in countries other than their own. Subsequently, there has been an increase in research relating to student exchang~ programs, although much ofthis work remains unpublished and hasfocu~ed~n the /.ssues surrounding American and European students. Therefore, this article II1vest/gat.es Australian and New Zealand university international exchange programs and consulers the personal characteristics of students that may influence such rat~s. Over.all, the findings of this study show that despite greater government!ocus onll1ternatlOnalization and student exchange opportunities, very few Australian and New Zealand students participate in student exchange programs. There is a need for future research to consider the issues surrounding student participation, including personality and socialfactors influencing the decision-making process and the impact ofthe exchange experience.