“Oh, i’m here!”: Social media’s impact on the cross-cultural adaptation of students studying abroad | Culture and communication in digital worlds

Author(s): Todd L. Sandel

Year of publication: 2014

Keywords: Social media, Cross-cultural adaptation, Study abroad, Online communication, Psychological well-being

Methodology/Sample: Interviews/23 international students

Reference: Sandel, T. L. (2014). “Oh, I’m here!”: Social media’s impact on the cross-cultural adaptation of students studying abroad. Journal of Intercultural Communication Research, 43(1), 1-29. https://doi.org/10.1080/17475759.2013.865662

Abstract

This study investigates the perceptions and interpretations of social media and online communication by students engaged in study abroad programs. In-depth interviews were conducted and analyzed with 23 American and international students who completed or were engaged in a study abroad program. Results suggest that online communication enhanced the students’ experience, providing help with sociocultural skills, informational needs, relational bonds, and psychological well-being. Different platforms were preferred when communicating with friends versus family and intimates. Online communication between co-nationals from the student’s home country buffered both the sojourning student’s acculturative stress, and the stress and concern of distant family members.

> Summary

The study explores students’ perceptions of social media and online communication during study abroad programs.
In-depth interviews were conducted with 23 American and international students.
Results indicate online communication enhances sociocultural skills and psychological well-being.
Different platforms were preferred for communicating with friends versus family.
Online communication helped buffer acculturative stress for students and their families.

> Problem statement

The study investigates problems with online communication among students in study abroad programs, including technical and relational issues.
Cultural expectations influence communication styles, leading to discomfort in interactions between students from different backgrounds.
Time zone differences and technology issues were significant challenges faced by participants in maintaining connections with loved ones.
The inability to master language skills was identified as a major acculturative stressor impacting students’ mood.
The paper highlights difficulties international students faced in making friends with American students due to cultural differences.
Overall, the research emphasizes the impact of online communication on students’ sociocultural adaptation and well-being.

> Methods used

The study employed in-depth interviewing as its primary method for data collection.
Participants were encouraged to narrate personal experiences during interviews.
Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim in original languages.
Data were analyzed qualitatively, with regular discussions among research assistants.
Field notes were collected to document interview details and participant interactions.
The research team had experience living abroad, enhancing the interview process.
A total of 23 interviews were selected for analysis from a larger pool.
The study focused on students’ perceptions of social media during study abroad programs.

> Practical implications

Online communication enhances students’ experiences, aiding sociocultural skills and psychological well-being during study abroad programs.
Different communication platforms are preferred for friends versus family, impacting relational bonds.
Successful adaptation involves leaving the former culture and engaging with the host environment.
The study highlights the importance of understanding cultural communication styles in online interactions.
Students’ experiences indicate that technical and relational challenges in online communication affect their adaptation process.
The findings suggest that host culture strategies significantly influence international students’ integration.