Internationalisation with Chinese Characteristics: Exploring the Paradox in Students’ Experiences at International Branch Campuses

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Abstract

While previous research has explored the impact of global and local forces on transnational higher education (TNHE) at a macro level, limited attention has been paid to students’ lived experiences navigating the mixed influences. Thus, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with 35 Chinese undergraduates enrolled in two Sino-foreign cooperative universities (SFCUs). From the theoretical lens of paradox, this study revealed the inherent tensions in the complex educational practices at SFCUs. The hybrid values of cosmopolitanism, nationalism, neoliberalism, and authoritarianism have repercussions on the programme structure, academic discourse, and university management. The findings indicate that students negotiated the tensions in various ways, including following the prevailing discourse, challenging the global imagery, and recognising the complexity of situations.

Author

• Mei Lai, The University of Hong Kong