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Journal of Studies in International Education
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13/4/455    most recent
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Social Networks and the International Student Experience

An International Community of Practice?

Catherine Montgomery

Northumbria University, ,C.Montgomery{at}unn.ac.uk

Liz McDowell

Northumbria University

An implicit perception of international students is that they have difficulty in becoming involved in social exchange with other students who do not share their "culture" and language. This picture of a group of students isolated and disadvantaged by their lack of contact with "UK culture" is questioned in this article. Data from a recent research project suggests that international students form a strong international community that supports their learning and provides them with a supportive learning environment. Thus, contrary to perceptions, the strength of this international community challenges the view that international students need to develop social and academic exchange with UK students to get the most from their university experience. The international community of practice described here presents a picture of a more positive and active international student experience, with international students as the providers of support and knowledge within a supportive and purposeful student community.

Key Words: community of practice • international students • sociocultural experience • social networks • support for learning

This version was published on December 1, 2009

Journal of Studies in International Education, Vol. 13, No. 4, 455-466 (2009)
DOI: 10.1177/1028315308321994
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