“You are not as localised as I need”: employability of Chinese returning graduates

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ly Thi Tran ◽  
Jill Blackmore ◽  
Mark Rahimi
Keyword(s):  
International Students ◽  
Labour Market ◽  
International Student ◽  
Research Question ◽  
Local Environment ◽  
Business Networks ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Overseas Study ◽  
China And India ◽  
Depth Interviews

PurposeInternational student employability has been accorded increased emphasis in the internationalisation agendas, especially in major destination countries as it shapes universities' attractiveness to prospective international students. Having insights into returning graduates' employability in their home country has become critical given that a majority of international graduates return home after their overseas study. This study responds to this critical need by examining how foreign credentials are valued by employers in the field of accounting in China, based on in-depth interviews with employers, alumni and policymakers.Design/methodology/approachThis study draws on a qualitative approach involving literature review and in-depth interviews with 28 key stakeholders: employers, returning graduates and policymakers in China and India. The key research question of the study is how foreign credentials are valued by employers in the field of accounting in China and India. This article focuses on the Chinese context. In-depth interviews with employers and policymakers focused on eliciting nuanced socio-cultural understandings as to perceptions and decisions associated with desirable graduate attributes and the relative value of credentials. Interviews with returning graduates aimed to understand how different capitals were mobilised to gain employment in the Chinese labour market.FindingsThe empirical findings of the study show that Chinese returning graduates could be seen to lack the localised knowledge needed to work in Chinese companies and ability to adapt to the local environment. However the possible development of a dual local and international guanxi through overseas study can be regarded as a marker of distinction in the home labour market. The associated value of such a dual guanxi signals the importance for Chinese international students to develop transnational networks while simultaneously maintaining their kinship, social and business networks locally during their overseas education.Originality/valueThe study provides fresh insights into a marked shift in China, with less of a preference for Western credentials, as compared to 10 years ago when overseas credentials were often regarded more favourably. Even though overseas study generally provides Chinese graduates with an exposure to international practices and global perspectives, whether such an overseas exposure and foreign language competency would be an advantage also depends on the business needs and sometimes the business model of organisations.

scholarly journals Strategic practices of subsidiary positioning in business networks

IMP Journal ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 37-55 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sari Laari-Salmela ◽  
Tuija Mainela ◽  
Elina Pernu ◽  
Vesa Puhakka
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Research Question ◽  
Local Environment ◽  
Business Networks ◽  
Market Positioning ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Practice Approach ◽  
The Usa ◽  
Machine Industry ◽  
Strategy As Practice

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine subsidiary positioning within the dynamic business networks in the context of multinational companies (MNCs). The research question of the study is: How does the positioning of a subsidiary emerge through strategic practices in the dynamic business networks of an MNC? Design/methodology/approach The study relies on the IMP view on strategy with a focus on market positioning activity and the strategy-as-practice approach. Positioning is seen as a question of strategic practices in the interactive spheres of the subsidiaries. In the empirical part of the study, the authors examine the practices of a forest machine industry multinational through longitudinal interview and archival data on three of its sales subsidiaries in Sweden, Russia and the USA. Findings The study defines core tensions in subsidiary interactive spheres and the related strategic practices that shape the positioning of the subsidiaries. The study models the practice-based network positioning of MNC subsidiaries as a dynamic play of relationship tensions. Originality/value Prior research has focused either on the internal organizing of the MNCs or embeddedness of subsidiaries in their local environment. Less attention has been paid to the practices of positioning through which the subsidiaries deal with the inevitable tensions at the intersection of the internal and external networks.

Voices of dissent: unpacking Vietnamese international student experience

2017 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 280-292
Author(s):  
Le Huong ◽  
Fung Kuen Koo ◽  
Rodney Arambewela ◽  
Ambika Zutshi
Keyword(s):  
International Students ◽  
Learning Environment ◽  
Student Perceptions ◽  
Language Proficiency ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
International Student ◽  
English Language ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The University ◽  
Depth Interviews

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine Vietnamese international students’ experiences with the campus learning environment by analysing differences in staff and student perceptions. Design/methodology/approach Two focus groups (n=12) and ten in-depth interviews were conducted with Vietnamese students and four in-depth interviews with the university staff (totalling 26). Findings The findings show a greater divergence of views between students and staff on teaching and learning than English language proficiency and student support services. These key differences were influenced by students’ prior expectations of their learning environment in Vietnam. Research limitations/implications This study is limited to one group of international students and to one Australian university. Practical implications The lecturers/administrators must have a good understanding of international students’ learning backgrounds and expectations to enhance their positive experience; appropriate teaching skills and practices are essential for teachers to meet the current needs of students. More effective training for international students to understand the multicultural nature of Australia is also essential. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by identifying the experience of Vietnamese international students in a western university, which is, a relatively under-researched nationality compared to other Asian nationalities such as Chinese and Indian.

International student perceptions of experience in the West

2019 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 147-166 ◽  
Author(s):  
F. Robert Buchanan
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
International Students ◽  
Student Perceptions ◽  
Foreign Students ◽  
International Student ◽  
Emerging Market ◽  
American Business ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Usa

Purpose The purpose of this exploratory study is an examination of some perceptions of US education, as experienced by foreign MBA students. Design/methodology/approach A longitudinal field study captured perceptions of a group of 51 international students over a one-year interval. The first anticipatory survey was done in India, and the follow-up was made in the USA at the end of a foreign sojourn semester. Inter-item correlations and t-tests were used to examine variance in student perceptions, highlighted by qualitative elements. Findings In general, the students went home, less impressed than they had expected to be in terms of the perceived general quality of the American business education, as well as their abilities to make friends with the local people. Additionally, the observed preparation of the American students for master’s studies was not nearly as high as the foreign students had anticipated. Research limitations/implications Results are not generalizable to broad populations, as the sample was small and localized. Social implications Emerging markets are successfully luring locals and sojourners based on cost and proximity as they achieve greater legitimacy in their institutional credentials. This could challenge the preeminence of Western higher education, especially in light of concerns arising from marketization and rigor. Meanwhile, developed market institutions need to be strategically mindful of their international guests as a resource rather than a commodity. Originality/value Extant internationalization studies tend to focus on administrative viewpoints, whereas this research examines the perspective of international students, which may be indicative of lessening gaps between perceptions of quality of developed and emerging market higher education.

scholarly journals Sustainable crowdfunding: insights from the project perspective

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (2) ◽  
pp. 281-302
Author(s):  
Natalia Maehle
Keyword(s):  
Community Engagement ◽  
Distinctive Feature ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Research Question ◽  
Qualitative Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Building Relationships ◽  
Distinctive Features ◽  
Sustainable Projects ◽  
Depth Interviews

PurposeThis paper explores the peculiarities of sustainable crowdfunding from the project perspective. The research question is: what are the distinctive features of sustainable crowdfunding, in terms of crowdfunding motivation, platform choice, crowdfunding costs and relationships with backers?Design/methodology/approachThe current study follows a qualitative approach, through conducting in-depth interviews with representatives of sustainable projects, which have had successful crowdfunding campaigns. The selected projects represent various industries and crowdfunding models.FindingsSustainable entrepreneurs have both financial and non-financial motivations for crowdfunding. A distinctive feature is the importance of community engagement, since the community spirit of crowdfunding is well suited to sustainable projects. The choice of the crowdfunding platform is more complex for sustainable entrepreneurs, as they need to consider the platform's sustainability. Sustainable entrepreneurs also have to put more effort into their communication activities with potential backers, to compensate for the intangibility of sustainability claims. Moreover, they need to have a greater focus on building relationships with backers due to both the community spirit of their projects and legitimacy issues.Originality/valueThe current paper contributes to the limited literature on sustainable crowdfunding and the literature on funding of sustainable businesses and can act as a foundation for further research in this field. Current findings also have high practical value. Crowdfunding platforms may use the insights provided here to better meet the needs of sustainable entrepreneurs, while sustainable entrepreneurs can better understand what they need to pay attention to in their crowdfunding campaigns.

Universities and research in times of crisis: the getting of wisdom

2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (4) ◽  
pp. 361-371
Author(s):  
Lorraine Ling
Keyword(s):  
International Students ◽  
Federal Government ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
International Student ◽  
Course Delivery ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Dramatic Effect ◽  
Normal University ◽  
Australian Universities

PurposeIn a time of the COVID-19, pandemic universities and researchers have been faced with unprecedented issues and challenges, and the purpose of this paper is to explore those challenges and issues.Design/methodology/approachIn this article the role of universities and research in times of crisis and emergency is explored.FindingsCOVID-19 has impacted upon universities and their staff and students in a range of ways involving course delivery, staff location and limited campus access and university income. The decline in the amount of funding provided by the federal government to Australian universities over several decades has caused a heavy reliance on international student enrolments; thus, the decrease in international students’ numbers, especially, has had a dramatic effect on university budgets. . Research and researchers are shown to be most vulnerable at a time when their expertise, knowledge and wisdom are arguably most required.Originality/valueThis sudden and unpredicted decline in funds available in universities due to the COVID-19 pandemic along with the disruption of normal university business, poses major problems for all the activities of universities. In this article the current Australian university context is used as a vehicle to explore the role that universities have during crises with particular reference to the role of research and researchers across all discipline areas.

How and why medically-trained managers undertake postgraduate management training

2015 ◽  
Vol 29 (4) ◽  
pp. 438-454 ◽  
Author(s):  
Erwin Loh
Keyword(s):  
Research Question ◽  
Management Training ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Management Competencies ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Chief Executives ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Purposeful Sampling ◽  
Management Positions ◽  
Depth Interviews

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to address the research question using qualitative research methods: how and why medically trained managers choose to undertake postgraduate management training? Design/methodology/approach – This research used two qualitative methods to gather data. Both methods used purposeful sampling to select interviewees with appropriate management expertise, qualifications and experience. The first stage utilised convergent interviews and was exploratory. The five interviewees were managers and academics. The second stage used case research methodology and was confirmatory. The fifteen interviewees were medically qualified chief executives and chief medical officers. In total, 20 in-depth interviews were carried. Rigorous content analysis of data collected showed emergent themes. Findings – The first theme that emerged was that doctors move into management positions without first undertaking training. The second theme was that doctors undertake such training in the form of a masters-level degree and/or a specialist fellowship. The third theme was that effective postgraduate management training for doctors requires a combination of theory and practice. The fourth theme was that clinical experience alone does not lead to required management competencies. The fifth theme was that doctors choose to undertake training to gain credibility. Research limitations/implications – This research was exploratory and descriptive in nature and limited to analytical rather than statistical generalisation. Originality/value – This research has provided insights into the importance of understanding how and why doctors undertake postgraduate management training, and may assist policy makers and training providers in the development of such training for doctors.

Challenges in and recommendations for working with international students with first-episode psychosis: a descriptive case series

2016 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 185-193
Author(s):  
Connie Lee ◽  
Gina Marandola ◽  
Ashok Malla ◽  
Srividya Iyer
Keyword(s):  
International Students ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
International Student ◽  
Case Series ◽  
First Episode Psychosis ◽  
First Episode ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Intervention Service ◽  
Episode Psychosis

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present a series of cases of international students being treated in a specialized early intervention service for first-episode psychosis (FEP), describing the particular challenges that arise in this process, and to provide recommendations addressing these challenges. Design/methodology/approach Two researchers independently reviewed the charts of seven international students and discussed them with their treating clinicians. Recurring themes were identified through an iterative process of discussion and consensus. Findings Four themes were identified which demonstrated specific challenges faced by international students being treated for FEP: difficulty maintaining student visa status, limited social and family support, financial and health insurance issues, and service disengagement. Originality/value The study suggests that international students with FEP may present with numerous and unique challenges, thereby requiring special attention in their treatment. Although these are preliminary findings based on a small case series, the findings can inform recommendations for mental health services in cities with a sizeable international student population and guide future research on this topic.

scholarly journals The Growth of International Student Mobility Is Faltering

2018 ◽  
Vol 2 (93) ◽  
pp. 9
Author(s):  
Dirk Van Damme
Keyword(s):  
International Students ◽  
International Student ◽  
Student Mobility ◽  
International Competition ◽  
The Political ◽  
Demand Side ◽  
Political Climate ◽  
International Student Mobility ◽  
China And India ◽  
Attitudes Toward Immigration

After years of impressive growth, the number of international students seems to stabilize around 4.6 million. No further increase has been observed in recent years. Possible explanations include changes on the demand side, in particular the quantitative and qualitative growth of domestic higher education in countries such as China and India. Also, recent evolutions in the political climate in destination countries seem to have a deterring effect. International students are confronted with a less welcoming environmentand generally hostile attitudes toward immigration. As a result, international competition for fee-paying international students seems to slow down significantly.

Academic experiences in teaching Chinese international students

2016 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. 238-251 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mark McCrohon ◽  
Berenice Nyland
Keyword(s):  
International Students ◽  
Academic Integrity ◽  
International Student ◽  
Research Literature ◽  
Positioning Theory ◽  
Academic Experiences ◽  
Chinese International Students ◽  
Student Experiences ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Perceptions And Attitudes

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate on the factors, which influence the academic perspectives and integrity of the Chinese international students (CISs) perspectives of academic integrity. The paper reports on the views and experiences of academicians interviewed as part of the study. Design/methodology/approach – The study used a trans-disciplinary conceptual framework based on grounded and positioning theory to interpret qualitative data derived from in-depth interviews and research literature. In line with this constructivist approach, a version of Auditable Systematised Qualitative Analysis was a tool used to conceptualise the participant’s ideas about academic integrity. Findings – Analysis of the gathered data from interviews with lecturers suggests that representing a line of discourse expressed by the institution was in many, but not all cases, difficult for these lecturers. Practical implications – This research has the potential to contribute to administrator, educator and policy makers in their understanding of CIS perspectives, international student experiences in host institutions and local academic experiences, perceptions and attitudes. Originality/value – This is a primary research paper designed to explore academic perspectives of academic integrity in working with international students. The complexities and changing nature of understanding of the international student context gives the research value.

Business networks in an auto-component cluster: an exploratory study

2020 ◽  
Vol 14 (3) ◽  
pp. 323-340
Author(s):  
Dinesh Rawat
Keyword(s):  
Research Question ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Government Agencies ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Business Networks ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Stage 1 ◽  
Two Stages ◽  
Auto Component

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to find out the different types of business networks formed by firms with the stakeholders present in a cluster, i.e. how firms in a cluster interact with the cluster stakeholders? Design/methodology/approach To answer the research question, this study uses an exploratory research design, which is carried out in two stages, Stage 1 involves use of primary data, which was collected through semi-structured personal face-to-face interview mode and Stage 2 involves survey research method where data was collected through a survey questionnaire. Data for interviews and questionnaires were collected from managers and owners of firms operating in the cluster at their offices. Findings The study has identified four types of business networks between a firm and its buyers, only one type of business network with the suppliers and educational institutes, finally two types of business networks with government agencies and local associations. However, with respect to network with other stakeholders such as research institutes and competitors, the study shows that the interaction between a firm and these stakeholders is not strong i.e. the linkages between them remain largely unfilled. Research limitations/implications The study has been limited to only one cluster thus it might not be appropriate to generalise the findings. Further research in this area needs to be done by taking other clusters to generalise the findings. Originality/value The study has tried to answer the research gap of lack of literature on types of business networks formed by firms with the stakeholders present in an industrial cluster, and thus, contributed to the existing literature of business networks. The identified business networks provide a much deeper understanding of how firms connect with its buyers, its suppliers, government agencies and educational institutes operating in an auto-component cluster.

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