The Factors Determining the Motivation to Participate in Erasmus Program for Turkish EFL Students

Y

12

English (Second Language); Second Language Learning; Study Abroad; Student Attitudes; Student Motivation; Foreign Countries; International Cooperation; Educational Cooperation; College Students; Second Language Instruction; Language Skills; Cultural Awareness; Barriers; Family Relationship; Educational Finance; Fear; Student Adjustment; Universities; Student Participation

Turkey; Europe

1562-0506

This study aimed to explore the factors determining the motivation to participate in Erasmus program for Turkish EFL students. The participants for the study included a total of 287 (87 male; 200 female) students enrolled in the Department of Language and Literature at Karadeniz Technical University. Data for the study were collected using a questionnaire conducted to comprehend students' perceptions and understand the reasons that lead them to be a part of this program. Results of the study showed that the most influential reasons for participants to study abroad were the desire to improve the language skills and to experience European culture. Results also indicated that there were perceived barriers on their way hindering students from applying study abroad program. The most recurrent reasons for not participating in the program were family and money issues and the fear of the difficulty in adapting to the university in a foreign country. This study includes suggested implications for the universities to increase student participation in Erasmus program.

As Provided

2019

EJ1207224