Stepping Forward to Learn: Thai Students Reflect on Hosting Australian International Exchange Students

Abstract

The value of international student exchange programs is well documented—from the perspective of visiting students and sending institutions. This article reports on research that aimed to capture different perspectives by talking with host Thai students who interacted with and translated for visiting Australian social work students. This focus on the experience of international exchange from the perspective of the hosting Thai students foregrounds these seldom-heard voices, highlighting the potential benefits of engagement and reflective learning for host students and institutions. The analyzed data show that there are numerous opportunities for host students to benefit from international exchange and to develop the attitudes, knowledge, and skills that are necessary prerequisites for intercultural learning and sensitivity. The article illustrates the high demands on hosts and can inform good practice in the planning and design of exchange programs.