The paper considers the effects of study abroad on student second language acquisition (SLA) and suggests areas for further study. It begins with an overview of current research on study abroad, its relationship to foreign language programs, and the innovations that this growing research base holds for program development. Attention then turns to Russian language teaching and the 1993 study, "Predictors of Foreign Language Gain During Study Abroad" (Predictors study). Discussion focuses on the compatibility of data analysis results with interpretations and implications for second language learning, instructional materials, and program development. The questions raised in this discussion lead to the final section: prospects for increasing understanding of the role of study abroad in the teaching and study of the Russian language. In this section, strategies are suggested for strengthening existing predictor models, study designs, questions to be addressed, and variables that might lead to an increased understanding of SLA during study abroad and the pragmatic applications for designing optimal study abroad experiences. Contains 35 references. (MSE)