Description
International students play a vital role in enriching the academic and cultural environment of tertiary institutions worldwide. However, their learning experiences can vary significantly due to factors such as cultural adjustment, language barriers, and differing educational practices. Understanding the predictors of international students' learning experiences in health science education is crucial for designing effective support systems and enhancing their academic success and overall well-being.
The findings of this project would help tertiary institutions understand the unique challenges faced by international students in health science programs and develop targeted interventions to support their academic success and overall well-being. This will not only enhance the educational experience of international students but also contribute to the diversity and inclusivity of the academic community.
Objectives
1. To identify the key factors that influence the learning experiences of international students in health science programs.
2. To assess the relative impact of these factors on academic performance, satisfaction, and overall well-being.
3. To provide recommendations for improving the learning environment and support services for international students in health science education.
Research Design
A mixed-methods approach will be employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews and focus groups to gain a comprehensive understanding of the predictors of international students' learning experiences.
Quantitate Component:
Online survey to collect data on various factors that may influence learning experiences, including:
• Demographic Information: Age, gender, country of origin, language proficiency, previous education.
• Academic Factors: Course load, academic performance, teaching methods, access to resources.
• Social Factors: Social integration, peer support, relationships with faculty.
• Cultural Factors: Cultural adaptation, experiences of discrimination, cultural competence of the institution.
• Psychological Factors: Stress levels, mental health, motivation, self-efficacy.
• Institutional Support: Availability and use of support services, orientation programs, academic advising.
Qualitative Component:
Interviews: Conduct semi-structured interviews with a subset of 30 students to explore their experiences in more depth on Challenges faced, coping strategies, perceptions of support services, suggestions for improvement.
Focus Groups: Organize focus groups with 5-7 students each to facilitate group discussions on common themes and shared experiences on Social integration, cultural adaptation, academic challenges, support systems themes.
Essential criteria:
Minimum entry requirements can be found here: https://www.monash.edu/admissions/entry-requirements/minimum
Keywords
International students, Learning experience, Health science, Health professional education, Education research, Learning and Teaching
School
School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine
Available options
PhD/Doctorate
Masters by research
Honours
BMedSc(Hons)
Medical Education
Time commitment
Full-time
Part-time
Physical location
553 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne (adjacent to The Alfred)