[PS] Poaster Presentation

[PS-03] Evaluating the Educational Impact of Study Abroad on Global Human Resource Development
– An Analysis of Behavioral Trait Changes Using the JAOS Study Abroad Assessment Test –

*Shugo Kagawa¹ (1. Osaka International University)

Keywords:

Educational Impact of Study Abroad,Global Human Resource,Intercultural Experience,Career Development

With the advancement of globalization in recent years, studying abroad has gained increasing significance in educational, cultural, and social contexts. In particular, the experience of encountering different cultures plays a vital role in broadening students’ perspectives, enhancing their international understanding, and supporting proactive career development. Accordingly, studying abroad is regarded as an important learning opportunity in higher education. In 2018, the number of Japanese university students studying abroad exceeded 110,000. Although this number temporarily declined due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been on a recovery trend since the easing of travel restrictions in the spring of 2022. Against this background, there is a growing need in higher education to visualize the learning outcomes of study abroad experiences and to examine their educational effectiveness. At Osaka International University, the “JAOS Study Abroad Assessment Test (Behavioral Trait Diagnosis),” based on behavioral psychology, was introduced for students who participated in long-term study abroad programs in the 2023 and 2024 academic years. This test measures changes in four key competencies—“communication skills,” “problem-solving ability,” “global mindset,” and “global behavior”—before and after studying abroad. Students use the results for self-evaluation and reflection, aiming to apply their growth to future learning and career development. This paper analyzes and discusses the educational impact of studying abroad based on the data obtained through this initiative.