This study is a qualitative investigation of the role that social networks play in the adjustment and academic success of international students. With large numbers of international students enrolled on US campuses, it is important for practitioners to prepare, understand and address their dynamic needs. Based on social network, social capital, and student development integrated framework, the study focuses on how international students utilize social networks to adjust and for academic success. Data were gathered through 30 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with international students. The number of international students coming to the US has increased dramatically. As this increase continues to pick, competition for these students locally and globally has intensified. Competing effectively requires addressing the needs and challenges these students face. Social networks of friends, family members, faculty, and administrators address the different needs and challenges facing this population. Yet, few studies have investigated how the students utilize social networks. Despite their fundamental role in students' adjustment and academic success, social networks have received little attention from higher education scholars, particularly on the role of social networks in the students' adjustment and success. This study investigated social networks of international students in general, factors that facilitate and impede social networking, how different networks correspond to different needs, and ways in which these networks help the students adjust and succeed. The findings of this study confirm that social networks play an important role in the various needs and challenges international students encounter as they pursue their studies.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:arizona.edu/oai:arizona.openrepository.com:10150/193690 |
| Date | January 2010 |
| Creators | KISANG, BENJAMIN KILIMO |
| Contributors | Maldonado-Maldonado, Guadalupe Alma, Maldonado-Maldonado, Guadalupe Alma, Lee, Jenny J., Rios-Aguilar, Cecilia |
| Publisher | The University of Arizona. |
| Source Sets | University of Arizona |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | text, Electronic Dissertation |
| Rights | Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author. |
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