外流影片

Live on Zoom 鈥� .

 

In this session, I invite participants to explore how embracing and supporting international students enriches Canada鈥檚 higher education and economy. These students contribute significantly through high tuition fees, cultural diversity, and academic excellence, providing vital benefits to institutions and the country. Drawing on findings from my Appreciative Inquiry (AI) research with international master鈥檚 students at a Canadian institution during the second wave of COVID-19, I will share uplifting stories of students who, despite challenges, expressed profound gratitude for their instructors, staff, and peers. Participants will discover how international students describe their instructors as 鈥減atient,鈥� 鈥渒nowledgeable,鈥� and 鈥渃aring,鈥� and how much they value the learning environments and opportunities provided by Canadian institutions. These findings demonstrate how inclusive practices, meaningful relationships, and institutional support enable international students to thrive and contribute significantly to academic communities.

 

Using the AI framework, we will engage in a guided exercise to reflect on what鈥檚 already working, imagine what鈥檚 possible, and create strategies tailored to participants鈥� unique contexts. This interactive process challenges common misconceptions about international students, such as assumptions about their accents, motivations, or academic integrity, and instead highlights their deep appreciation for education and the relationships they build along their journey. The session will conclude with a Q&A, so participants leave inspired and equipped to proactively embrace and support international students, whether facilitating their learning, mentoring them, or collaborating on shared goals.