South and Western Asian International Students in Mainland Chinese Universities: Choices, Experiences, and Satisfaction (Poster 28)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Saturday 3:20 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Navigating Identity, Inclusion, and Belonging: Student Perspectives on Equity, Policy, and Intercultural Experiences in Higher Education

Abstract

This study collected data from 40 South and Western Asian international students in three Mainland universities through semi-structured interviews to explore why they chose Mainland Chinese universities for higher education and the key learning experiences contributing to their cognitive and skill outcomes. Thematic analyses were conducted based on student course experience and student engagement. The most frequently reported reasons for choosing Mainland Chinese universities were the rapid technology and economic development and safety. Five themes crucial to informants’ educational outcomes are consistent with two previous frameworks, albeit with some differences in what they involved compared with the previous literature. Three new themes emerged. Difference were also observed in students’ experience between those who took the integrate and separate tracks.

Authors

• Lily Min Zeng, University of Hong Kong

• Manli Long, Hubei University of Technology

• Shuang Liu, Hubei Medical university