International Graduate Students' Challenges and Learning Experiences in Online Classes

The purpose of this case study was to identify the learning experiences and examine the challenges facing three international graduate students enrolled in online, asynchronous classes in an American public university. Applying the lens of constructivism, data were collected from a questionnaire, se...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of international students 2018-10, Vol.8 (4), p.1722-1735
Main Author: Karkar-Esperat, Tala Michelle
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Distance learning
Educational aspects
Educational Environment
Educational technology
Foreign students
Graduate students
Language Proficiency
Online Courses
Online education
Online instruction
Social adjustment
Social aspects
Student Attitudes
Student Experience
Student Satisfaction
Teaching Methods
Technology application
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Summary:The purpose of this case study was to identify the learning experiences and examine the challenges facing three international graduate students enrolled in online, asynchronous classes in an American public university. Applying the lens of constructivism, data were collected from a questionnaire, semi-structured interviews, and a focus group. Findings from the study indicate that the students faced challenges with English language proficiency, isolation, instructor's lack of experience, and a lack of motivation to study in online classes. Notwithstanding, students described flexibility and convenience as key factors of the learning experiences in a virtual classroom. Implications for administrators and course designers in understanding student perspectives of online classes and best practices for conducting asynchronous classes are provided.
ISSN:2162-3104
2166-3750
DOI:10.5281/zenodo.1468076