Multicultural Acceptance in Higher Education: Evaluating the Impact of Cross-Cultural Interactions in the CAMPUS Asia Plus Program

• In Event: An International Student Perspective: Criticality, Self-reflction & Experiences of International Students and Educators

Proposal

[Background] Initiated in 2010 through a collaborative agreement among the governments of Korea, Japan, and China, CAMPUS Asia (Collective Action for Mobility Program of University Students in Asia) has tried to promote international student mobility. By 2021, it evolved into CAMPUS Asia Plus, incorporating universities from 10 ASEAN nations. As it broadens its reach, the Korean government envisions this program as an instrument to build a Pan-Asian higher education community. Drawing from the contact theory, this study investigates whether increased intercultural interaction among participants fosters diminished prejudice and heightened multicultural acceptance.

[Methodology] The study subjects were college students from 13 countries, including Korea, Japan, China, and the 10 ASEAN member countries, who participated in the CAMPUS Asia Plus program between September 2021 and December 2022. An online survey, tailored by our research team, was administered from January 12 to February 5, 2023. After filtering out inauthentic responses, 157 were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, variance analyses, and multiple regression techniques.

[Findings] Results indicated a robust multicultural acceptance among the participants. Individual backgrounds such as gender, age, or nationality showed no discernible influence on multicultural acceptance. However, the mode of class engagement displayed a significant impact. Specifically, students attending face-to-face or hybrid classes were more inclined toward multiculturalism than those attending solely online. Additionally, a direct correlation was observed between the frequency of intercultural interactions—with peers, faculty, or locals—and enhanced multicultural acceptance. Interestingly, duration of exposure to diverse cultures, either through program participation or overseas stays, didn't significantly sway multicultural acceptance levels.

[Conclusion and Implications] This study emphasizes the importance of cross-cultural understanding and inclusivity among university students. As we navigate the post-COVID era, these insights are crucial for shaping international student mobility programs. Students show a clear interest in cultural immersion, so it's essential to offer them diverse experiences both inside and outside the classroom. These programs aren't just academic pursuits; they play a vital role in promoting global understanding and harmony. Therefore, these findings should guide governments and universities when deciding on funding and improving international student exchange initiatives.

Authors

• Ee Gyeong Kim, Chung Ang University

• Gyunghyun Kim, Chung Ang University

• Seungho Han, Chung Ang University