Usefulness of studying English abroad

Studying abroad is key aspect to be considered in learning a language. It may improve communication skills as well as writing ones and much more. It is not the only way to learn a language, but it represents an important part of the learning path. Studying in an English speaking country works on more aspects: pronunciation, vocabulary, syntax, and even on making up the cultural setting.

         The full and straight contact with English introduces the student in a new setting that stimulates his brain. The first aspects to be considered are pronunciation and vocabulary. It is clear that pronunciation is greatly improved by listening a native speaker. The student improves pronunciation as much as intonation. It is true that pronunciation can also be taught using digital devices, but the learning is not continuous and it does not interact with the student as much as a person can do. Interaction plays an important role in learning since it catches the learner's attention.  Vocabulary is also improved, new words stick up better in the student's mind in a real conversation. For example a person who says "cat" to someone pointing at it, has more possibilities to make the listener remember what cat means if he does not already know it: the learner may remember the situation in order to remember the meaning. Syntax and grammar are not involved as much as pronunciation and vocabulary. It is also true that the student may listen to wrong words, pronunciation or syntax, that is why the learning should not be based only on oral communication, but even on written one, that is generally correct, and the student should always use a dictionary and a grammar.

         It is important to remind that studying English in an English speaking country implies the creation of the cultural setting of learning. Language is the expression of culture and so culture helps the student to understand what the linguistic choices are the result of. It is not necessary to know English culture in order to speak English, but it helps understanding more in depth both the language (pronunciation, vocabulary, syntax) and the use of the language (books, articles, films, advertisements and so on).

         Last but not least, studying English abroad represents the shift from theory to practice. Only practicing the student can test his skills and improve them and real life situations are the better opportunities to do it. Besides, the new setting stimulates the student's brain: changing setting means getting out of the rut.

         Some may argue that it is possible to learn having conversations with native speakers, reading books, studying grammar and practising without going to an English speaking country. It is true, but studying abroad makes the learning quicker and helps the student to create the cultural setting.

         Studying English abroad represents an opportunity that English learners should consider. However, it must be balanced against the cost and the time involved.