Localizing the Global: Examining International Students’ Perceptions of Communication in the Classroom

Abstract

International students are becoming an increasingly important population of the American institution, but support for these students’ academic experiences is still lacking despite the unique communication-related challenges many face. English language ability has been the main focus of many studies aimed at improving the experience of international students. This study instead understands English proficiency as one component of communication ability and examines how international students’ confidence in their own communication skills shapes and is shaped by their experiences in the classroom. Using semi-structured interview data from seven University of Washington students, this research finds that while English ability is an important factor in the class experience of many students, it is just one component of successful communication. Other factors, such as confidence, personality, and cultural background, may exist as additional barriers that must be acknowledged to ensure a positive learning experience for international students.