ERIC Number: ED640943
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 191
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3811-6868-6
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Non-Traditional International Students' Perceptions of Support Services: A Phenomenological Study
Christian Gallie
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, University of West Georgia
This phenomenological study investigated the lived experiences of eight "non-traditional international students" (NTISs) at a public research university in the southeastern United States. Despite extensive research on international students, very little is known about this particular student population, their unique needs, and characteristics. This study aimed to address the gap in the literature and equip higher education professionals with a profound understanding of those students and the requisite support services for their success. The participants were purposefully selected, and the data were collected through semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions to allow them to reflect on their experiences and provide a rich description of their experiences. The two questions guiding the study were: 1) How do NTISs perceive the services they receive at their institution? and 2) What do NTISs need to foster their success in college? The data were analyzed utilizing open coding, and data validation and bracketing were also employed to enhance trustworthiness and validity. The findings revealed eight salient themes that captured the essence of the phenomenon under investigation. They were: 1) communication issues, 2) insufficient services, 3) financial issues, 4) slight discrimination, 5) welcoming campus, 6) need for more financial support, 7) communicate clearly and effectively, and 8) amplify NTISs voices and needs. Those themes mirrored the participants' experiences and perspectives and underscored the significance for higher education institutions to design support services tailored to NTISs' specific needs and characteristics. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Nontraditional Students, Foreign Students, College Students, Student Needs, Student Personnel Services, Student Attitudes, College Environment, Inclusion, Financial Problems, Social Discrimination, Financial Support
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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