Studying overseas: mainland Chinese students in Singapore

Dimmock, C. and Ong Soon Leong, J. (2010) Studying overseas: mainland Chinese students in Singapore. Compare: A Journal of Comparative and International Education, 40(1), pp. 25-42. (doi: 10.1080/03057920903155666)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/03057920903155666

Abstract

This paper reports a study aimed at developing a substantive theory on the perspectives of Mainland Chinese studying in Singaporean universities. The study was guided by two research questions: (1) Why do university students from Mainland China choose to study in Singapore? and (2) How do Mainland Chinese university students manage the experience of studying in Singapore, a different cultural environment? A grounded theory approach was adopted and the so‐called theory of ‘selective pragmatism’ was generated. The theory suggests that Mainland Chinese students at Singaporean universities can be classified into three ‘types’ – the ‘intellectuals’, the ‘opportunists’ and the ‘loyalists’ – according to how they individually exercise choices and decisions based on four categories – push forces in regard to China, pull forces in regard to Singapore; individual resilience in coping and adapting to life overseas; and future career intentions. Common to all, however, is pragmatism, which is selectively exercised in different ways, thereby distinguishing the three types.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Dimmock, Professor Clive
Authors: Dimmock, C., and Ong Soon Leong, J.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Education > Professional Learning and Leadership
College of Social Sciences > School of Education > Educational Leadership & Policy
Journal Name:Compare: A Journal of Comparative and International Education
Publisher:Routledge
ISSN:0305-7925
ISSN (Online):1469-3623

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