Pandian, Ambigapathy
(2008)
Multiculturalism In Higher Education:
A Case Study Of Middle Eastern Students'
Perceptions And Experiences In A
Malaysian University.
International Journal of Asia Pacific Studies (IJAPS), 4 (1).
pp. 1-27.
ISSN ISSN: 1823-6243
Abstract
Malaysia faces challenges in creating a new multi-channelled learning
environment where international and local students study, connect and work with
one another across classrooms, community and country borders in so many
exciting ways. The Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education has made a recent
move to transform the landscape of tertiary education where one main thrust aims
in intensifying internationalisation and ensuring a 10%–30% enrolment of
international students. Malaysian higher education will therefore experience
rapid racial and ethnic diversification of its student body. This paper will examine
multicultural activities that have been a part of graduate school's work for many
years. There is, however, little discussion on outcomes related to diversity
initiatives, multicultural programmes and global educational opportunities
experienced by the students. This paper reports on the findings of a recent study
that has aimed to examine diversity and multicultural awareness that influences
the growth and development of graduate students. Taking the case study of Middle
Eastern students in Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), the study unveiled the
patterns of interactions between international and local students which consider
the quality and quantity of contact, friendship patterns, social support networks
and the functional roles of inter-cultural interactions. Furthermore, the findings
revealed perceptions of Middle Eastern students on the larger community which
involves notions of perceived discrimination, prejudice, tolerance and stereotyping. The findings of this study would help practitioners understand the
influence of student affairs programmes and services that can contribute not only
to the well-being of students but also to the enhancing of multiculturalism in
Malaysian higher education.
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |
![[img]](http://eprints.usm.my/style/images/fileicons/application_pdf.png)
