Mobility International students are often great adventurers. They negotiate very different cultural settings in their formative years, and embrace changes in lifestyle with determination and courage. When things go wrong, or if they feel unwelcome, the personal effect on their learning will be serious. As they usually do not have local family backup, their dependence on university services and on teaching staff for advice, direction and support is generally higher than domestic students. Teachers should be aware that they may be the first person in the university whom a student trusts, and should respond with care and professionalism.
International students are also aware that their sojourn is a temporary one.
It is possible that the degree to which they make adjustments in the first year, and relate to course content is influenced by this. For the most part, international students do not anticipate remaining in Australia after graduation, their commitment to significant relationships, or vocational direction may differ from that of permanent residents. An awareness of different attitudes and methods of using information may assist you to appreciate the way your students operate in the classroom. Further, generating discussion about the experiences, motivation and objectives of the group will break down the barriers that form through disinterest and alienation. Cultural Difference Unfamiliar language and content, particularly assumptions of prior knowledge can be confronting for international students who may not be accustomed to seeking help, and who are unfamiliar with the types of services offered at university, like counselling, language and learning services etc.