University of Twente Student Theses
Change of Perception. A study on cultural views’ adjustment of non-EU international students in the Netherlands.
Quiroz Ramos, V.G. (2015) Change of Perception. A study on cultural views’ adjustment of non-EU international students in the Netherlands.
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| Abstract: | Today’s competitive world is making students search for different ways to make them distinct and valuable employees. Studying abroad is one of the paths chosen as it provides international education and self-development opportunities for university students. During their stay abroad, students experience ‘acculturation’, which is broadly defined as the process through which an individual adapts to a new community. While most research of international students has been focused on studying the behavioral aspects of acculturation, less emphasis has been placed on the initial conditions and psychological outcomes, which may help to better understand the reasons behind international students’ behaviors. To study how international students’ perceptions are adjusted during acculturation, this study focused on the initial (i.e. acculturation conditions) and current (i.e. psychological outcomes) opinions of international students in the Netherlands regarding certain cultural themes. The results indicate that current opinions of international students about their countries of origin, higher education at home, family, and friendship have been adjusted to reflect a sense of appreciation. Opinion of the Netherlands and its culture have been modified to a dual perspective of a tolerant society, closed to deeper interactions with foreigners. Future career’s possibilities have expanded mostly for international students who initially thought of a future in academia. Also, international students have developed multicultural skills and identified organizational skills as an area of improvement. In regards to life views, international students have maintained similar opinions as before moving to the Netherlands, but have included contributing to society and spending more time with people who are important in their lives. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 05 communication studies |
| Programme: | Communication Studies MSc (60713) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/67828 |
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