THE IMPACT OF STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS ON DEVELOPING SOCIOLINGUISTIC COMPETENCE IN HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERS

This article delves into how study abroad programs significantly enhance the sociolinguistic competence of high school learners. These programs immerse students in diverse linguistic and cultural environments, providing invaluable exposure to real-world communication. Through continuous interaction with native speakers and cultural participation, students develop a nuanced understanding of societal norms, language variations, and intercultural dynamics. The study highlights the core benefits of study abroad experiences, such as cultural adaptability, linguistic growth, and increased confidence in communication, while also addressing potential challenges and proposing strategies to overcome them.