Does Family Background Influence Student Engagement in Internationalization at Home? A Survey From Chinese Universities

• In Event: Theorizing Gaps in College Student Development

Abstract

Internationalization at home (IaH) is integral to internationalization strategies, aiming to involve all domestic students in international activities. However, its effectiveness for traditionally disadvantaged students in China is unclear. This study, conducted in 2023 with undergraduates from four flagship universities in Shanghai (n=304), investigates the likelihood of various social groups participating in IaH activities. Results show that students with lower parental education levels are less engaged in academic practices and foreign language resources, but no differences are observed in interpersonal communication, exposure to cross-cultural issues, or perception of an international campus. Previous cross-cultural contact experience significantly enhances participation in IaH activities. These findings suggest that IaH strategies should consider students' social composition and focus on broadly engaging activities.

Author

• Tong Liu, East China Normal University