Date of Award
9-20-2024
Publication Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.Ed.
Department
Education
Keywords
Academic experiences;Graduate international students;Microaggression;Sense of belonging;South Asian Students;Students’ wellbeing
Supervisor
Clayton Smith
Abstract
Between 2010 and 2020, Canada saw a 170% increase in international students, drawn by its multicultural environment. Despite this, international students frequently face language, academic, life, and social barriers that impact their sense of belonging and academic success. This study investigated the sense of belonging and academic experiences of South Asian international graduate students, focusing on how belonging influences their academic performance and well-being, the role of interactions with educators and peers, strategies to address challenges, and the impact of microaggressions. The research integrated qualitative and quantitative data from surveys and semi-structured interviews with graduate students from South Asian countries. Findings reveal that a strong sense of belonging positively affected students' academic performance and well-being. Cultural recognition and inclusive practices are crucial for creating an environment where students feel valued and integrated. However, language barriers, administrative challenges, and perceived biases posed significant obstacles. Interactions with educators and peers significantly influenced students' sense of belonging, with positive and respectful engagement playing a pivotal role in fostering a supportive academic environment. Despite most students feeling respected, challenges related to language, cultural differences, and discrimination persist, were identified impacting their integration. The study underscores the need for universities to enhance support through comprehensive academic, practical, and emotional resources, including mentorship and culturally sensitive mental health services. Addressing microaggressions is also vital, as they contribute to social isolation, emotional distress, and academic disengagement. The research highlights the importance of institutional commitment to fostering a sense of belonging to improve academic performance and well-being.
Recommended Citation
Sriramachandran, Thivya, "Sense of Belonging and Academic Experiences of South Asian International Graduate Students in an Ontario Public University." (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 9542.
https://scholar.uwindsor.ca/etd/9542