Navigating new waters: The academic learning experiences of international postgraduate taught students in UK higher education

• Autores: Mingyu Li, Zhimin Shen
• Localización: Innovations in education and teaching international, ISSN 1470-3297, Vol. 63, Nº 1, 2026, págs. 53-66
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • This study explores the academic learning experiences of international postgraduate taught students at a UK university. Employing a longitudinal case study design, the study collected data from 168 interviews and 3 group sessions with 12 students. The findings reveal three principal themes: evolving motivations for studying abroad, the variability of lecturer support, and the impact of cultural and linguistic barriers on classroom participation. Students’ initial motivations centred on academic advancements evolve into a broader appreciation for personal and cultural growth, while lecturer support is shown to be crucial yet inconsistent, significantly affecting students’ academic success. Additionally, cultural norms and language proficiency significantly contribute to students’ reluctance to participate in classroom discussions. The study contributes to the broader discourse on international education by providing practical implications for educational stakeholders on how to enhance support systems, tailor teaching methods, and create more inclusive academic environments that address the needs of these students.