Critical Thinking Skills: Challenges Faced by International Students in Finance and Accounting Degrees

Abstract

The gap between academic standards and expectations of British academics and those of international students has a direct impact on student success. And where this expectation gap is identified, the institutions have a responsibility to look to close it. Researchers identified more extensive areas of conflict such as learning styles, participation, collaboration, independence and deficiencies in critical thinking. This study aims to identify the specific challenges international students encounter in developing the critical thinking skills required at British universities. This research conducts interviews and questionnaires with international students in UK universities to highlight the challenges faced in gaining CT skills. The data collected is analysed using thematic and factor analysis. The findings reveal that previous educational experience, cultural differences and lack of support from academics are a few prominent among many challenges that international student face in acquiring critical thinking skills.