Abstract: I’ve settled in, but it’s a hard question because there are no methods, it’s just like an ongoing thing. It’s just like a transition thing – you can’t say ‘If you do this, it will make it better’ because it is based on the individual.*
International students, who choose to pursue study in a foreign university, are among the highest-achieving candidates in most institutions. Nevertheless they experience a number of transition issues, intensified by being far from their usual supports, in a new academic culture, language and way of life. As well as adapting to the academic skill requirements of the host institution, international students must complete a successful transition to being a tertiary student in the host country. This chapter suggests practical strategies to ground the academic and social success of international students.
Keywords: Transition, international students, social , academic, success, culture, student support
Abstract: This paper attempts to explore the stages of development that a homestay family goes through and the psychological significance of each stage. A family who is recruited to be a homestay provider for the first time needs guidance and support from an experienced professional as well as from other families who have been providing this service for a certain length of time. Two ‘new’ families have been selected and the stages they have developed through have been mapped against Tuckman’s group development process as outlined by Samuel Gladding in ‘Group Work – A Counselling Specialty’. Variations to the model will be discussed as well in this presentation. The stages will be explored and strategies will be designed to optimise the experience for the families, students and professionals at institutions working with these groups. The increased understanding of the developmental process will benefit all involved.
Keywords: Student support, homestay, relationships, development
Abstract: In order to provide better value to all stakeholders, ECU International revisited its key student programs in 2003. Refreshing its approach, it is evolving its Orientation volunteer program and low-cost recreational program into a multi-faceted experience that is inclusive, interactive and responsive to the needs of all participants.
This presentation provides snapshots of the features that are incorporated in the program. The experience is focused on increasing the range and quality of socio-cultural and academic outcomes for international students, opening opportunities to develop long-term social and peer support networks, providing a platform for cultural-exchanges and crosscultural awareness in all communities. It also offers the University an opportunity to support student-led projects for the wider community that builds a sense of camaraderie and enhances a community spirit. The approach has achieved many positive outcomes: satisfaction and participation rates have increased with the program now attracting over 180 students each semester.
