The Impact of American Students and Teachers on Gulf Students’ Academic Success

Abstract

The study explores the impact of students' and teachers' support on Emirati and Saudi students at U.S. Universities. Based on a sample of 219, a mixed methods approach was used to analyze responses from participants who responded to a questionnaire. The results of the questionnaire instrument reveal that almost half the number of Emirati students felt "comfortable" associating with students from the same region. Also, the survey shows that most Emirati and Saudi students were "very comfortable" and "comfortable" to discuss their challenges with their professors. The interviews results indicate that different communication skills might influence students' relationships especially if they come from different cultures. For instance, an Emirati student experienced ignorance from American students and a Saudi student emphasized the American students' preference to work with their American peers. However, Emirati and Saudi students try to get involved in group work with American students to get assistance.