The needs of international students: Co-constructed social work knowledge through action research

Abstract

International students coming to Canada face substantial challenges beyond the move to another country due to their student status. The challenges of migration primarily revolve around the process of adjusting and integrating into a foreign community, as well as the emotional and psychological hurdles that individuals face while adapting to a new environment, dealing with homesickness, and striving to establish a sense of belonging. This collaborative action research study used a generic qualitative inquiry methodology to explore perceptions of the needs of international students and how best to address those needs. The goal of the study was to co-create knowledge about student issues and how to best address them from a social work perspective. The study recruited 12 participants from three stakeholder groups to collaborate in the study: four social workers, four community members, and four international students. The participants completed a semi-structured interview to explain their views and knowledge related to international student needs and how to best address them from a social work perspective. The findings highlight the needs of international students before and after arriving at their post-secondary institution and the recommendations to meet their needs. The four themes identified were basic needs issues, the importance of support systems, addressing training and psychoeducation needs, and improving advocacy. The executive summary deliverable highlights suggestions for incorporating the systems theory model to meet the needs of international students studying in Canada.