Exploring the transformative learning experience of international adult students in the Indonesian context

Abstract

The recent mobility of international students has a tendency to increase, in number Numerous studies, conducted in western countries, have investigated those students’ academic and non-academic learning processes, albeit focusing more on the process of self-adjustment to a new environment different from their home country. This study aimed to examine the transformative learning process of international adult students in an eastern country. Adopting a qualitative research design, the study collected data through semi-structured interviews and analyzed it interpretively through the stages of coding, categorizing, and drawing conclusion. The findings showed that the international students went through various stages during the learning processes, namely a) disorienting dilemma as a result of the differences between habits and challenges faced; b) exploration of information by mingling with local students and local community, observing daily life events, and immersing themselves in the community real life; c) making meaning through reflection and feeling; and d) doing self-transformation in ways of being, the affective experience of life, and more discriminating. The results of this study can become a consideration for higher education institutions to provide international students with learning services.