Exploring the experiences of overseas students in China

This paper presents the findings from an interpretative study, which examines the experiences of overseas students in China. It investigates the major challenges and issues regarding overseas students prior to departure, upon arrival and during their stay in China. There is a growing body of literature focusing on experiences of overseas students studying at Western universities. Given the increasing number of students coming to study in China in recent years, there arises the need to explore their experiences. To date and to the knowledge of the researchers, the study is the first in-depth and interpretative research on this field within the Chinese context, particularly from the perspective of overseas students. An in-depth and semi-structured interview technique was employed as the research method. Eight students who came from Western countries and studied in Chinese universities for over six months were interviewed face to face or through telephone. The interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. The findings reveal some differences in teaching and learning approaches between China and Western countries. The study makes a contribution to gaining insights into overseas student experiences in China. Recommendations on meeting their needs are also made to Chinese universities and the administrative authorities. Key words: international education, cross-cultural study, learning and teaching