People are always exploring and seeking new experiences. There is an intangible value which comes from finding a new place, integrating with the community, interacting with the local people, and understanding the way these people live. Rodriquez (2016) suggests that cultural immersion provides participants with the ability to see things from another point of view, so they are able to evaluate situations not as overseas students, but as local community members.

This programme embraces The Mico University College’s philosophy of student-centredness, authentic and life-long learning. It endorses the vision of the National Cultural Policy of Jamaica, which aims at a super state based upon “the unique cultural manifestations and distinctive style that can be considered to be quintessentially Jamaican” (Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture, 2008, p.4).

Jamaica’s cultural heritage gained distinction from international singers such as the Hon. Robert Nesta “Bob” Marley and Jimmy Cliff; renowned athletes like the Hon. Usain Bolt, and cricketers like Chris Gayle. The Blue and John Crow Mountains, home to the Jamaican Maroons, with retentions of the Jamaican Taino and many endemic plant and bird species, have been included in the important sites listed on The World Heritage Convention.

The Mico University College founded in 1836, and one of the oldest teacher training institution in the Western Hemisphere, is a national heritage site, not only because of its origin, but more so its Georgian buildings represent the finest Colonial architecture and its museums which include the Indian, African and Caribbean (INAFCA) Museum and The Mico Museum of Education.

Research has shown that studying abroad (SA) is more beneficial than studying locally when it is related to developing specific language skills such as oral proficiency (Freed, Segalowitz, & Dewey, 2004). Living and interacting with locals improve confidence and fluency (Collentine, 2009).