Valuing Cultural Diversity: the academic adjustment experiences of undergraduate Chinese international Business students at Victoria University

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Zhang, Christabel Ming (2002) Valuing Cultural Diversity: the academic adjustment experiences of undergraduate Chinese international Business students at Victoria University. Research Master thesis, Victoria University.

Abstract

International students have diverse needs when undertaking education in Australian universities. It is in the interest of both international students and the host institution to ensure these students achieve success in their studies. This study builds on previous research and explores, from the students' perspective, the academic adjustment experiences of undergraduate international Business students from Chinese Confucian heritage cultural backgrounds at Victoria University, Australia. A qualitative methodology, using principles of grounded theory, was used for the study. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted for data collection. The transcribed data was analysed under focus questions and themes identified in the literature review using open and fixed grids. The dissertation documents the academic experiences of the cohort of students studied, focusing on the significant cultural factors which impinged on their adjustment; and discusses the emerging patterns, processes of the adjustment, strategies for future students to adjust well, and implications for curriculum development and delivery. The results of this study have suggested that cultural and educational backgrounds play a significant role in students' adjustment. The systematic building by academics and administrators of formal and informal mechanisms in Australian universities, which value students' cultural diversity and develop inclusive curricula, is to enrich the learning experiences of all students.

Additional Information

Submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Education

Item type Thesis (Research Master thesis)
URI https://vuir.vu.edu.au/id/eprint/229
Subjects Historical > RFCD Classification > 330000 Education
Historical > Faculty/School/Research Centre/Department > School of Economics and Finance
Historical > Faculty/School/Research Centre/Department > School of Social Sciences and Psychology
Keywords ResPubID3724; cultural diversity; academic adjustment; Chinese international business students; Victoria University
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