Conserver,Strategist or Transformer: The experiences of postgraduate student sojourners |
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| Authors: | Margaret Kiley |
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| Institution: | Centre for the Enhancement of Learning, Teaching and Scholarship , University of Canberra , ACT, 2601, Australia |
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| Abstract: | A longitudinal study of Indonesian postgraduate students studying in an Australian university indicates that in terms of change the students clustered into three main groups: Transformers, Strategists and Conservers. Transformers (25% of the group) reported having undergone significant change in the way that they viewed the world and their learning compared with when they started. Strategists (approximately 50%) realised that there were certain skills and attitudes required of them if they were to be successful in their new learning environment. These students also reported that they were aware of the need to revert to other, more culturally appropriate, ways of interacting on their return home. Conservers (approximately 25%) reported that they were keen to increase their knowledge and skill, but at the same time they did not want to change who they were and the way they viewed the world. The characteristics of each of these clusters of students and the critical factors are reported. |
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