Science students perceptions of the learning environment in Science degree programs

Sarfraz Aslam

doi:10.17485/ijst/v13i38.1294

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Learning environment plays a crucial role in students’ academic achievements. To understand this relationship, the study explores the perceptions of international science students in degree programs. Methods/Statistical analysis: This study used a mixed-method research design. Five interviews were conducted to explore and confirm the quantitative findings. Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measure (DREEM) questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from a sample size of 71 participants in three faculties, including life sciences, chemistry, and physics. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Cronbach’s alpha, Mean, standard deviation, ANOVA, and thematic analysis were conducted to analyze the data. Findings: The overall mean score of the DREEM was 142.49/200, indicating that international science students held positive perceptions of their learning environment. However, interviews explored the problematic areas, such as lack of a support system for students who got stressed, orientations about degree programs do not provide information for the next steps during the programs. Labs are well-equipped; however, all labels and instructions inside labs are in the Chinese language. Conclusion: There is a need for a student support system to enhance the learning environment. Well-planned orientation should be conducted at the start and mid of the programs to facilitate students’ learning environment. Keywords: Science; perceptions; learning environment; student support system; international students

Highlights

Graphical AbstractWhen many students choose to study abroad, they often conceptualize modern foreign education systems and learning environments that are entirely different from those in their home countries
This study aimed to add to the body of knowledge, theoretical and realistic contributions about international science students’ perceptions of their learning environment
This study investigated international students’ perceptions of the learning environment concerning three different science faculties: Physics, Chemistry, and Life Sciences

Summary

Introduction

When many students choose to study abroad, they often conceptualize modern foreign education systems and learning environments that are entirely different from those in their home countries. The learning environment is an essential criterion for measuring the quality of a university. The learning environment creates a pleasant learning atmosphere and inevitably cultivates high-quality students as well. University is not a paradise, nor is it a place of entertainment, but a platform before entering the workplace. Students find this place so familiar but completely different from their previous one, and they need to adapt and face it bravely. Excellent talents create a pleasant environment, and first-class environments cultivate high-end talents. Actions, and health of students are affected by the educational setting in which they stay and study [1,2,3]

Objectives

Results

Conclusion