The Experiences of International Students in Cooperative Education: A Case Study
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Abstract
This research explores the experiences of adult international students participating in the Cooperative Education Program at the University of Regina. Purposive sampling was used to select four participants for this study. A case study methodology was used with data gathered through semi-structured interviews and journals and then thematically analyzed. Although the participants reported difficulty finding work placements, the Cooperative Education Program allowed them to gain Canadian work experience and to develop a network of contacts they felt would enhance their careers. Each participant had a unique experience in the workplace with language and cultural differences playing a critical role. Participants reported that their workplaces differed in their approaches to cultural diversity. Given the growing cultural diversity of students in Cooperative Education, the findings in the study are relevant to cooperative education practitioners seeking to become more responsive to international students. Cooperative education programs should provide international students with additional training to increase their familiarity with host employers as well as local job search practices. Cooperative education programs should also communicate to employers the benefits of hiring international students and addressing cultural differences. Finally, cooperative education employees who work with international students would benefit from on-going professional development that fosters greater cross-cultural understanding.