The Influence of Social Interactions with American Students on Intercultural Sensitivity of International Students in Higher Education Institutions

摘要

International student enrollment in the United States has seen a steady growth in the last decade. A problem exists that although higher education institutions are able to meet the academic needs of international students, they are not properly equipped to address the cultural challenges these international student populations face. This study focused on the importance of universities introducing initiatives that consider international students’ lives and cultural learning when at U.S. campuses. The purpose of the study was to measure the intercultural sensitivity of international students based on social factors such as social interaction with Americans and their living choice. Data were collected from three higher education institutions located in a state in the Midwest United States. The Intercultural Sensitivity Scale (ISS) developed by Chen and Starosta (2000) was utilized to collect data. ANOVA, Correlational analyses, and ttests were utilized to analyze the data and to measure the differences and relationships in the intercultural sensitivity of international students based on level of social interactions and living choice. The results indicated no significant differences in the intercultural sensitivity of international students based on living choice. Data also indicated no relationship between living with American student(s) and intercultural sensitivity of international students. Furthermore, no differences were found based on level of social interaction with American students and intercultural sensitivity of international students.