International tertiary student experience in Australia: A Singaporean perspective

Abstract

Over the past decade, the growing market of international students has resulted in changing expectations students have about the products offered by tertiary education providers. This is especially evident in Australia where, due to its geographical proximity, universities are increasingly attracting a large number of students from the Asia-Pacific region. This paper presents the findings of an exploratory study that investigated Singaporean student perceptions of and interactions with the Australian culture whilst studying at an Australian based university. The study uses this context to provide a better understanding of the role that host countries and universities play in facilitating the educational experiences of students who choose to study in foreign countries. Analysis of data from four group interviews held with Singaporean students reveals an in-depth understanding of how the interactions between international students and those of the host destination influence the experience of the international students. Practical implications relating to the management of the international student experience are presented for the Australian tertiary education sector.