Managing identity development for international students in a Malaysian Public University

Abstract

International students are confronted with a number of obstacles when they become accustomed to social and academic life in another country and these issues influence their academic performance and personal achievement. Any understanding of such students in academic contexts necessarily requires a broader understanding of their identities and sociocultural backgrounds. In view of that, the purpose of this study was to determine identity development management for international students in a Malaysian public universities. A total of 214 international students were involved as sample. This study utilized mixed methods in which both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used to understand identity development among international students. Pearson's Correlation Coefficient was used to examine the relationship between demographic variables, vectors of development and environmental influences. Moreover, One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Independent samples t-test were used to examine the differences in vectors of development and environmental influences based on students demographic variables. The findings discovered that the level of vectors and environmental influences among international students was moderate and relationship between demography variables, vectors of development and environmental influences was high. Moreover this study revealed small to moderate differences in vectors of development and environmental influences based on demographic variables. Based on the findings, the study had given several suggestions in order to manage international students‘ identity development in the University. It is recommended that decision makers and managers organize and implement a comprehensive, multidimensional strategy to develop students‘ intellectual, physical and interpersonal competence; recognize, accept and appropriately express emotions; promote self-direction and problem-solving ability, and develop intercultural and interpersonal tolerance and appreciation of differences, among international students.