UNDERSTANDING THE EXPERIENCES OF INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE STUDENTS IN A CANADIAN COLLEGE
Date
2017-10-11
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
ORCID
0000-0002-8626-911X
Type
Thesis
Degree Level
Masters
Abstract
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of international graduate students in a College at the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada, in order to understand their motivations and academic and non-academic adaptations in a new environment. A case study design was employed and qualitative methods, utilizing semi-structured interviews with eight participants, informed by constructivist theory, was deemed the most appropriate approach to data collection and analysis.
Themes emerging from data analysis included motivations, relationships, hardships, and adjustments, confirming and deepening the findings of prior research on international students’ experiences and highlighting the unique challenges faced by international students in this particular context. Data was also analyzed to articulate recommendations around improved institutional interface with international students, confirming the importance of targeted financial, academic and social supports.
By focusing on one site of internationalization this research provided deep insight into the experiences of a group of international students and enhanced understanding of the broader internationalization of post-secondary education from student and institutional perspectives. Potentially, the findings can inform the decision-making processes of international students and be mobilized for evidence-based policy making around recruiting and interfacing with international students in multiple post-secondary education contexts.
Description
Keywords
Internationalization, International Students, Academic Experiences, Non- Academic Experiences, Culture Shock.
Citation
Degree
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Department
Educational Administration
Program
Educational Administration