Thessaloniki as a study abroad destination : the quantitative analysis of the American students perception

Abstract

This study aimed to deliver an analysis of the motives that push the American students into the decision of choosing Thessaloniki, Greece as their Study Abroad destination. The dissertation is made up by the following chapters: Introduction, Literature Review, Methodology, Analysis and Discussion and Conclusions and Recommendations. Through the use of the quantitative research methods and the adaptation of the Theory of Planned Behavior, the set of questionnaires were designed and delivered to the American students that have attended Study Abroad program in Thessaloniki the last two years. The findings suggested that the ability of such programs to provide an opportunity for improvement of the student's learning of a foreign culture and self-development were seen as important factors that help them decide the potential destination. In addition, the climate, costs of living and hospitality of the host country are regarded as important motives as well. This study is the first to use the TPB and the findings and outcomes of it can be used by the research community for performing future similar ones. In addition, it helps the institutions of education on building more efficient strategies and study abroad programs.