Methodologies in Spanish-language study abroad research

In the past 40 years, researchers have employed a variety of methods to investigate language learning in Spanish-speaking study abroad (SA) settings. From an early focus on language gains measured quantitatively, the literature on Spanish-language SA has increasingly included qualitative and mixed-methods designs that explore the complexity of socially-situated learning abroad. Considering growth in the field and in the methods applied, we view as fruitful a critical appraisal of where we have been and how we can build on recent methodological advances in future research. In this article, we begin by examining the research goals, design, and instruments deployed in quantitative and qualitative approaches to investigating Spanish as an additional language abroad. We then evaluate the contributions and limitations of these methods. Following this discussion, we consider future directions, touching upon issues of reflexivity, ethics, and equity.