RESEARCH ARTICLE GUIDELINES

Research papers should report on empirical research into virtual exchange. They must be clearly situated within a critical review of existing literature, and must make explicit their theoretical framework and research methodology. The journal welcomes submissions from any established or persuasively defended theoretical and methodological orientation. Submissions must be original and not published elsewhere or under consideration for another journal. Authors are strongly encouraged to get in touch with the editors prior to submission if their research paper follows a different structure with an explanation of why this is needed.

Research Paper Format

Research papers will typically include the following elements:

For Quantitative Studies:

Maximum number of words: 8,000 including Abstract and References, but excluding Appendices

Title

A Title of 10-15 words should be provided.

Abstract

An Abstract of 150-200 words should be provided.

Keywords

Five keywords (or key phrases) should be supplied, to include at least the subject(s) taught (e.g., German, French, intercultural communication, business communication) and any recognised virtual exchange formats or functions (e.g., tandem, pre-mobility exchange).

Introduction

The Introduction should outline the relevance and contribution of the research to the field. It should provide an overview and clearly state the research questions.

Literature Review

The Literature Review should provide a discussion of relevant prior studies and position the research within a theoretical framework(s).

Methods

The Methods section should provide the following methodological details:

Participants (research site)
Procedure (data collection/analysis/validity/reliability)
Ethical considerations must follow the guidelines laid out under the Ethical Policy

Results

The Results section should clearly state the findings using descriptive and inferential statistics and visual presentation (graphs, tables).

Discussion

The Discussion section should evaluate and synthesise the findings and tie them back into previous research.

Conclusion

The Conclusion section should briefly restate key findings, outline implications, limitations, and make suggestions for future research.

List of References

All references must follow APA guidelines.

Appendices

Appendices should not exceed 1,500 words.

For Qualitative Studies: