Abstract
International students represent an increasingly large segment of the Australian workforce. Most international students are working while studying, but there is a scarcity of quantitative data regarding potential work–study conflicts. Data from an online survey were analyzed with multivariate statistical methods to clarify the risk factors associated with perceived work–study conflicts in an Australian university. More than 66% of students felt that working demands interfered with their study. Negative impacts included tiredness and timetable clashes. Statistically significant correlates of work–study conflict were a perception of unfair wages and a lack of confidence in discussing occupational health and safety issues with employers. Underpayment may signify other vulnerabilities, such as unsafe working conditions. As many universities seek to increase their international student enrolments, these are important factors to consider for student retention. To mitigate this potential negative influence on study, universities should provide education and training related to international students’ rights and responsibilities in the workplace.
Highlights
The profile of international students in Australia is diverse and many factors may potentially influence their academic success and general experience in the Australian community
We explore factors associated with work-study conflict using an online survey of international students at the University of Adelaide
Demographics—“What is your age?”; “What is your study program?”; Working experience—“What is your job status?”; “Do you think your wages are fair?”; Training experience—“Have you ever had any training in occupational health and safety (OHS)?”; Work–study conflict/interference—“Do you feel that your work interferes with your study?”; Role of the university—“Do you think the university has a responsibility to provide OHS
Summary
The profile of international students in Australia is diverse and many factors may potentially influence their academic success and general experience in the Australian community. Factors that could be important include age and stage of life; whether they are alone or with family members; living and working arrangements; and the study program and its duration [1]. The study programs include exchange programs, English language courses, and higher education courses ranging from undergraduate degrees to masters and doctoral programs. International students in Australia come from all parts of the world, with the majority of students from China, India, and Malaysia [2]. Understanding the individual factors and interaction of factors is important for educational institutions and the community. We seek to explore the interaction between academic study and outside work
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