Exploring the international postgraduates’ perspective of academic problems in Chinese universities located in Wuhan, China

Abstract

Every year millions of students travel to other countries to pursue their dreams of becoming skilled and knowledgeable professionals with expertise. However, they have to face some challenges and difficulties during studying abroad. The current study aimed to examine and identify the academic problems faced by foreign postgraduates while studying at Chinese universities in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Further, this study also aimed to identify various levels of academic problems and put forward possible recommendations and solutions that help international postgraduates cope with difficulties in their studies. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey from the 493 international postgraduates studying in six public sector universities located in different parts of Wuhan. Using the SPSS 24 version and Principle Component Factor Analysis method, the study found that foreign postgraduates encounter academic problems and difficulties, 30.25%, 12.04%, 8.21%, perceived scientific research writing, teaching & learning, and perceived student-supervisor interaction. Also, 5.07% and 4.47% of the perceived major courses and academic activities. The study finds that foreign postgraduates studying in Wuhan, China expressing their significant concerns, are scientific research writing issues, the teaching system, lack of student-supervisor interaction, language barrier, and fewer course selection options. Based on the result, the study suggested that focusing on scientific writing skills, increasing interaction with supervisors, offering more English programs, increasing English teaching faculty, and arranging academic seminars and workshops can effectively reduce students’ academic problems in Chinese universities. Possible solutions, limitations and future research directions have been discussed.