From frustration to enlightenment: experiences of student exchange program awardees in Taiwan

Abstract

Background: Studying abroad is one of the most exciting experiences for a college student who is running a student exchange program, as it creates opportunities to learn, work, solve problems, and ensure a secured life. However, Indonesians who are into student exchange programs face some difficulties in adjusting to their new environment. They experience awkwardness in the use of advanced equipment from technology and cultural aspects. This study investigates the experiences of two Indonesian students who participated for a semester at a Taiwanese university. It aims to explore the Indonesian student exchange program awardees’ experiences by examining both the obstacles and benefits of attending the Taiwanese university. Methods: This study used qualitative data analysis. Data were collected through a semi-structured interview, informal participant observations, and a set of open and closed-ended questions. Two Indonesian undergraduate students who belonged to the same major, year, and university were recruited to act as ambassadors. Results: The two students reported facing some problems but felt more independent and became more adaptable. They met with new people and explored new places, and learned much in terms of teaching pedagogy and personal development from the 21st-century classroom pedagogy, which was important for their future carrier in education. Aside from being able to feel the 21st-century classroom environment, they were able to learn the host language and culture, which enriched their insights. Five main findings emerged: departure and journey, difficulties in settling in, inability to use technology facilities, meeting new people and exploring new places, and 21st century classroom environment. Conclusions: Despite the challenges that are associated with being a student exchange awardee, there are vast opportunities for self-development and learning the ropes associated with teaching from the 21st-century classroom pedagogy.

The Contribution of Sports Student Exchange Experience toward Students’ Self Confidence

“…Research emphasized the benefits of the student exchange program such as developing intercultural competence [11], learning a language and technology [12], and having a global vision which encourages students to be global-minded students [13]. Further, this globalmindedness will likely influence students' perception (in a positive nuance) toward their future profession [14]. Additionally, the students get an up-to-date understanding of the country they visited and develop worldwide relations [11] which raise international solidarity and understanding during their intercultural interaction [15].…”

Cross Cultural Understanding and English Language Skills Development of Indonesian Students Studying Abroad

“…Students' perceptions of the impact of studying abroad for an exchange program may vary among individuals, yet it usually helps them in achieving personal goals, cultural immersion, and expansion of network (Harrell et al, 2017). Other exclusive benefits that students get among many things are meeting new people from different cultural contexts and the 21st-century learning environment (Silalahi & Sitorus, 2021). For students, especially those who study English Language and Education or Literature, the aim of learning English as a target language is not just using the language, but effectively using it as a communicative tool in different context.…”

Long-term Impacts of Tourism Student Exchange Program

“…Globalization is one of the factors that led to a significant increase in students' exchange programs abroad and contribute to diversity and internationalization of classrooms, colleges, and communities and to the enhancement of mutual understanding and appreciation of the differences around the world (Cheney, 2001;Silalahi & Sitorus, 2021). This could occur since a student exchange program would bring value to the participants and local development through experiential learning.…”