Intersectional Exploration of International Chinese Students' Lived Cultural and Educational Experiences During COVID-19

• In Event: Asian International Students' Experiences in the Time of COVID

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore Chinese international students’ experience in the age of COVID-19. Specifically, we intended to explore the intersectionality of education and culture within the pandemic context. We applied a descriptive phenomenological method to explore lived experiences of participants prior to and during the COVID-19. Raw data were collected through semi-structured focus group interviews and individual interviews. Participants were 14 international Chinese students or scholars attending an urban, four-year university in the southeast region of the U.S. Four themes were identified: concerns around safety, complex decision making leading to less than optional results, English language, and unexpected benefits. Findings will help establish and strengthen a culturally and linguistically responsive system to support all international students.

Authors

• Yaoying Xu, Virginia Commonwealth University

• Donna Gibson, Virginia Commonwealth University

• Ben Olsoe, Virginia Commonwealth University

• Toshna Pandey, Virginia Commonwealth University

• Yingying Jiang, Virginia Commonwealth University