Student or Customer? Mainland Chinese Students’ Self-Identification in Hong Kong’s Self-Financed Taught Postgraduate Programs

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 8:00 am Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: International Student Adaptation and Cross-Cultural Identity (Table 12)

Abstract

Hong Kong’s self-financed taught postgraduate (TPg) programs have experienced significant growth, primarily driven by mainland Chinese students. The marketization orientation of these programs is different from the educational experiences of mainland Chinese students. This study used a mixed-methods approach to survey and interview mainland Chinese students enrolled in self-financed TPg programs. The aim was to understand how their self-identification changes and how they perceive their learning experiences as empowering them to become more proactive participants in their educational journey. The study seeks to contribute to the theoretical understanding of mainland Chinese students’ self-identification when studying abroad and offer practical insights for self-financed TPg program providers in Hong Kong to improve program quality.

Author

• Weiyan Xiong, Education University of Hong Kong