A short-term study abroad program: An intensive linguistic and cultural experience on a neighboring Pacific Island

In 2015, the authors—two French teacher-researchers from two universities in Melbourne, Australia—ran an inaugural two-week intensive study abroad program to New Caledonia for 13 undergraduate students of French (average age 22) enrolled in their departments. The intensive in-country part of the program followed 10 hours of preparatory lectures and workshops, and two hours of general travel and cultural information. The aim of this program was to explore the unique historic, economic, political, and cultural aspects of this French territory through the exploration of language and culture.