A note : study abroad programs : a potential key to successful accounting and management education in a global world

Abstract

The continuing globalization of business underscores the importance of educating students to develop a broad worldview. This exploratory study attempts to provide educators with some insight into the usefulness of a short-term study abroad program. An existing short-term study abroad program undertaken by students from a first world country (United States of America) to a developing country (South Africa) was used as a basis for conducting the study. It became evident during the study that the mere idea of studying abroad served to initiate research into another culture. In addition, the participants believed that a visit to another country provides better insight into that country. This study argues that it is possible for a study abroad program to be used as an important educational tool for improving accounting and management education in a dynamic global world. Attending a study abroad program helps students gain international experience and intercultural skills, which are key factors in successful globalization and management.