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