Orientation Towards a Master’s Degree: International Students’ Perceptions of Successful Engagement in Higher Education

Authors

Abstract

Engagement is an important piece of effective strategies in both education and employment. Engagement is linked to well-being, persistence, and goal orientation. To raise and maintain interest, motivation and engagement during studies is crucial. This study explores international university students’ (n=25) experiences and perceptions related to the concept of engagement at the moment they entered a two-year master’s programme in Finland. Phenomenography was used as an analysis approach to build knowledge describing participants’ different experiences. The results suggest practical implications to support students’ cognitive and collaborative engagement in international study programmes, guiding educators to design more supportive materials, curricula, interactions and practices from the beginning of the education. 

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Author Biography

Signe Siklander, University of Oulu, Faculty of Education and Psychology, TTEC (Teachers Teaching and Educational Communities research unit), Finland

Associate Prof. Signe Siklander, Faculty of Education, PO Box 8000, 90014 University of Oulu, Finland.

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Published

2025-04-03

How to Cite

Siklander, S. ., Brauer, S. ., & Thangaperumal, P. (2025). Orientation Towards a Master’s Degree: International Students’ Perceptions of Successful Engagement in Higher Education. Student Engagement in Higher Education Journal, 6(1), 148–177. Retrieved from https://sehej.raise-network.com/raise/article/view/1226

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Vol. 6 No. 1 (2025): Building and valuing relationships

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