The role of study abroad programmes in devising an internationalised sport management curriculum

The value of an international experience for Sport Management students continues to be an area of focus across the higher education sector. The experience of studying abroad in a new setting, a new culture, with new classmates, new lecturers and new assessment practices can push or pull students outside of their comfort zone. This unique experience exposes students to opportunities to improve interpersonal and communication skills and has also shown to increase adaptability, assertiveness, self-confidence and independence. Whilst existing literature stresses the importance of an international experience as part of a programme of study, very little coverage is given to the knowledge, skills and abilities that are developed by students when studying abroad. Furthermore, the very nature of a study abroad programme can cause discrepancies in establishing an inclusive, diverse and equitable curriculum especially when funding becomes a defining factor around engagement in such opportunities. Consequently, this chapter explores the concept and values of a study abroad programme from a student perspective whilst also providing an insight into devising ana study abroad international experience for all through the digitalised concept s of ‘virtual exchange’ and ‘internationalisation at home’ which provides access to intercultural learning for those to ensure that students who are unable to participate in a study abroad programme can also benefit from the skill development associated with its practice.