Purpose This paper aims to focus on enhancing the learning experience for both expatriate academics and students in international higher education institutions (HEIs) through understanding students’ cultural perspectives, analyzing student feedback and evaluating faculty placement strategies. The analysis can be used to aid international educational programs in understanding student values and increasing the quality of instructor–student interaction. Design/methodology/approach This research surveyed over 1,300 undergraduate students enrolled in a US and Chinese dual-degree program located in China. A voluntary survey with open and closed questions assessed the cultural values of students, and the cultural values and behavior they believe are important for their instructors to observe in the classroom. Findings The results of this case study suggest that students’ perceived importance of Western cultural values demonstrated only one significant change during their time of enrollment in a US degree program. However, the research indicates that the importance of Chinese cultural values decreased from the students’ first year to their fourth year. Some notable propositions include the importance of culturally competent and experienced faculty in the students’ early US courses and data-driven recommendations for placement, training and development of new foreign faculty to increase the likelihood of a satisfactory experience for both the faculty and students in the cross-border classroom. Originality/value Ultimately, this research can aid international HEI’s by enabling enhanced student and instructor experiences and superior HR practices in the less observed area of faculty placement. These improved practices can contribute to the quality and sustainability of such international programs. In addition, this research provides perspective on the impact of international education on student cultural values and presents student feedback to increase understanding of student expectations and desires in the international classroom.

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In 2018, tensions between China and the US became increasingly heightened through escalation of the US-China trade war.  This case study examines the impact of this trade war on Chinese students’ desired study abroad location.  Through surveying 596 Chinese students and interviewing 40 Chinese students planning to study abroad.  The article examines to what extent the trade war influenced their decision regarding which country they desired to pursue further education.  Additionally, the case study explores closely related issues designed to better understand how the student is affected by the Chinese media environment. Highlighted issues include whether the trade war will affect the students’ purchases of foreign-made consumer goods, how students obtain their news regarding the trade war, and to what extent students’ views differ from their parents.  Findings indicate that these political events have not had a significant impact on educational preferences, but have influenced consumer good choices.  The research also re-examines student motivating factors and suggests specific strategies to maximize Chinese student enrollment in foreign higher learning institutions.

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Little is known about the perceptions of Chinese citizens regarding U.S. domestic politics, particularly among university students in the People’s Republic of China. During their time at institutions of higher learning, U.S. students often experience heightened political awareness and increased engagement with political issues. Scholars have conducted minimal research, however, among their Chinese counterparts. Given the current political climate, as the United States and the prc have an exceptionally contentious relationship, the opinions of Chinese students regarding the most recent U.S. presidential candidates have particular interest. This case study examines 506 Chinese university students’ perspectives on U.S. 2020 presidential election candidates Donald J. Trump and Joseph R. Biden Jr. Findings indicate that there is a negative perception of Trump, a great deal of uncertainty regarding Biden, and considerable diversity among opinions overall.