CoNfErENCE ProgrAm impact of student Motivation to study abroad on development of a Global perspective Ann Hubbard (AIFS Study Abroad), Philip Anderson (University of St. Thomas), Leigh Lawton (University of St. Thomas) Findings of a collaborative research project will be presented on the correlation of students’ motivation to study abroad with their development – as measured by the Global Perspectives Inventory (GPI). Two U.S. faculty with education abroad experience designed and administered their Motivation to Study Abroad survey with the GPI to students of AIFS programs in an effort to identify whether there are factors that lead to greater development. Bio-demographics and program features (e.g., internships) also factor into the study. promoting oral proficiency Gains in education abroad Through a programmatic intervention Francesca Di Silvio (Center for Applied Linguistics), Anne Donovan (Center for Applied Linguistics), Margaret E. Malone (Center for Applied Linguistics), Michael Vande Berg (MVB Associates) This session presents results of a three-year study investigating an intervention with host families designed to increase meaningful conversational exchange with learners of Spanish, Chinese, and Russian in semester programs. Findings from tests, conversation recordings, and surveys inform programs and advisers on how to enhance language learning in homestays. The role of Mindfulness Training in intercultural education Robert Pryor (Antioch Education Abroad), Clarke Warren (Naropa University), Danielle Leonard (University of Albany), Jamie Robinson (CEA Study Abroad) This session will explore how mindfulness techniques may be applied to enhance the study abroad experience. These methods can aid the student in developing an improved capacity for selfreflection, and the ability to encounter a new cultural environment in a positive way that will lead to increased intercultural sensitivity. general session | 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. | New for 2014! Moderator: Dr. Allan E. Goodman, President and CEO, Institute of International Education speakers: Senior Representatives of the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Education Most of us would agree that every student who wants to participate fully in today’s global society should study abroad. Yet only about 10% of all U.S. undergraduates study abroad prior to graduation. U.S. higher education needs to renew its commitment to study abroad, and needs to take purposeful, innovative action to encourage more U.S. students to have an international learning experience. This plenary session, moderated by Allan E. Goodman, President and CEO of the Institute of International Education, will focus on major new efforts that seek to expand dramatically the number of U.S. students studying abroad. Senior representatives from the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education will highlight specific U.S. governmentled initiatives to expand outbound student mobility. This session will also serve as a call to action: In order to achieve a goal of doubling the number of U.S. students who study abroad, every institution needs to pledge to take concrete action to expand its numbers and to make it possible for more of its students—from all backgrounds and in all academic fields—to study abroad. celebration toast | 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. baY laWn, sheraton san Diego hotel & marina Join colleagues for a toast to celebrate a Forum milestone—our 10th annual conference! 21