Korean International Students' Cultural and Educational Experiences and Their Identities in U.S. School Contexts

• In Event: 75.062 - Poster Session 18
  In Poster Session: 75.062-5 - Shifting Paradigms in Schools and Classrooms

Abstract

This presentation reports findings of an interview study. The purposes of this study are to understand Korean international students’ cultural and educational experiences and to identify their identity maintenance and shift at a university in the southern United States. The participants were three Korean exchange students and three Korean students pursuing degrees. The data included a questionnaire and five interviews throughout two semesters. The findings revealed (a) the participants’ cultural and educational experiences, (b) their perspectives on beneficial and challenging factors to live and study in the U.S., (c) their short-term and long-term goals, (d) significant ‘Ah-Ha’ moments, and (e) motivational factors. The presenter discusses implications for future/current international students, instructors, and administrators to facilitate the students’ success in the U.S.

Author

• Ho Ryong Park, Murray State University