Increasing Institutional Support for Pasefika Students in English Composition

• In Event: Reframing Higher Education for Indigenous Peoples: Embracing Indigenous Perspectives and Empowering Future Generations

Abstract

This longitudinal study examines sociocultural factors that affect the academic performance of Pasefika students in required English composition courses. Research in composition studies suggests that academic difficulties of multilingual international students are as likely to be caused by systemic issues as by individual student factors, suggesting a need to focus on uncovering institutional factors that affect student performance. Student surveys and academic achievement data collected over the course of students’ first year indicate that Pasefika students who test higher in English placement exams, make friends outside their native culture group, and feel less pressure to support their overseas families financially perform better in composition courses. These findings indicate a need for increased institutional support for students, their families, and faculty.

Authors

• Christina Akanoa, Brigham Young University - Hawaii

• Becky DeMartini, Brigham Young University - Hawaii

• Caryn Lesuma, Brigham Young University - Hawaii

• Spencer Scanlan, Brigham Young University - Hawaii