A study on the impact of international academic visit exchange programme among chemical engineering students

Abstract

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), through a Global Outreach Programme (GOP) has been encouraged UTM students to go oversea on exchange programme for a period of their study. The objective of this program is mainly to globalise students' educational experience by adding an international dimension to their degree. This study was done to bring clarity to the role of exchange and advantages program which in line with UTM academia learning aspiration. This study specifically accessed the advantages gained among Chemical Engineering student from an exchange program between UTM and Hanoi University of Mining and Geology, Vietnam (HUGM). Data were collected via qualitative method through collecting reflective journals written by all students participated in this exchange programme. Using thematic analysis, the result demonstrates that a period of study abroad with different culture has brought benefits to the majority of UTM and HUMG students. Among the major positive outcomes appeared to be an improved personal development and intercultural competencies and enhancement of professional skills for careers. This program also encouraged high level of continuous contact and international networking from both universities. Most students participated in this program had showed their appreciation on this unique experience of travelling abroad.