Cultural adaptation and transitions within international higher education: University students’ experiences of studying abroad during the 2020 Coronavirus pandemic
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This qualitative study explored students' lived experiences of higher education study abroad programs during the Covid-19 pandemic. Studying individual experiences in extraordinary circumstances like a pandemic can reveal personal, organisational and process-related resilience relevant to understanding and planning future events. Online semi-structured interviews with thirteen international students from four continents (North America, South America, Europe and Asia) were conducted amidst the pandemic in the Spring of 2021. Transition Theory underpinned the study. Interviews with students were used to explore personal strategies adopted to support the transition to virtual platforms during the pandemic. Through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, four response categories were identified: Functioning in Ambiguity, The Importance of Language and Culture, Reshaping Community, and Alternative Experiences in Intercultural Connectivity. Participants' responses delved into aspects of acculturation, culture shock and resiliency amidst the disruption. These findings may inform future practices for international professionals supporting students studying abroad.
Source: PLoS ONE
Authors: Teneisha Ellis, Corinne Jola, Andrea Cameron
Institution: Abertay University
Language: English
Subfield: Communication
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,290
OpenAlex ID: W4403719034