Supporting International Students in an Ontario College: A Case for Multiple Interventions

Abstract

At an Ontario College of Applied Arts and Technology experiencing a rapid internationalization of its student population, three faculty members in the School of Business embarked on an action research project to learn how to better facilitate the success of international students. The research team examined grades from international and domestic (Canadian) students and conducted a survey of international students to better understand their unique challenges. Findings from the grade analysis include a gap in academic success between domestic and international students. Survey data indicated that intervention strategies, such as internationalization of the curriculum, faculty training and development, and intercultural co-curricular activities, can positively impact the student experience as well as faculty satisfaction, and the learning environment.