Understanding the Narrative Encounter of Taiwanese Students’ First Cross-Cultural International Education Experiences in the Philippines

Teresita Bautista; Alden Tolentino; Fernando III Trinidad; Ronald Manzano

Teresita Bautista College of Hotel and Tourism Management, Trinity University of Asia
Alden Tolentino College of Hotel and Tourism Management, Trinity University of Asia
Fernando III Trinidad College of Hotel and Tourism Management, Trinity University of Asia
Ronald Manzano College of Hotel and Tourism Management, Trinity University of Asia

Keywords: immersion program, internationalization, partnerships, interaction

Abstract

Internationalization is currently one of the pursuits among universities to be globally competitive and offer pluralistic programs. Philippine universities pursue partnerships with schools from other countries to engage in collaboration of programs, create innovative courses, and offer remarkable ventures. This study was conducted to examine the perception of the participating international students at a university from Taiwan on the academic, social, and personal factors that impact their localized university experience in a university in the Philippines. Qualitative data from focus group discussion were analysed from the participants of the cross-cultural immersion program who went and studied for one term. The study identified several implications that might be utilized to enhance the experience of the students participating in the university’s international study program. A holistic approach in the creation of the program for international students is paramount. The program must navigate through culture, language, academic competencies, and support services with corresponding infrastructure facilities. Culture is integral for the delivery of lessons as well as communication in all transactions. Retooling mechanisms must be in place which may cover teaching strategies, access to information, a buddy system to bridge gaps and other related pursuits.

The study identified several implications that might be utilized to enhance the experience of the students participating in the university’s international study program. A holistic approach in the creation of the program for international students is paramount. It should provide support that looks at the whole person, not just the mental health needs but should also consider the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing.

Further, effective promotional strategies are essential to build an international program. The program must navigate through culture, language, academic competencies, support services with corresponding infrastructure facilities and language as part of the learning culture is integral for the delivery of lessons and communication in all transactions. This is an area for improvement as retooling mechanisms must be in place which may cover teaching strategies, access to information, a buddy system to bridge gaps and other related pursuits.