Saudi International University Students' Perceptions of their Relationships with American Teachers at a Large Western Research University

Abstract

The number of Saudi Arabian international students studying at U.S. universities has increased dramatically over the last decade. Existing studies show that many Saudi international students are faced with challenges adapting to studying at Western universities. In this study, Saudi international students’ perceptions of their relationships with American college instructors will be examined. Qualitative research and interviews were used to explore how various factors influence Saudi international students’ engagement with instructors at a large Western research university in the United States. Specifically, the researcher seeks to understand what Saudi international students experience as helpful or not helpful in their relationships with American instructors. It is hoped that exploring the relationships between students and instructors from the perspectives of Saudi students will give these students a voice and lead to better understanding of student and instructor needs. This information is vital in creating supportive resources and services for both Saudi international students and their American instructors.