The Effect of Online Learning on International Freshmen's Academic Exposure: A Case Study
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted all aspects of our lives including educational practices. The social distancing and restrictive movement policies have forced institutions across the globe to shift from conventional to online learning methods. This makes the learning process more difficult, not just for regular students but also for international freshmen. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of online learning on international freshmen’s academic exposure. Qualitative research was done using a single case study of an international freshman at Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya, Indonesia who due to the pandemic had to begin the session with online classes. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using Zoom meetings and documentation. The interview was focused to find out students’ approach toward online learning and academic exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic while the documentation was done to know the results of academic exposure. It was found that the students had a cultural shock in terms of language and network connection. Therefore, the authors recommend the universities to provide a supportive environment to freshmen and the students to work on their adaptive capability for such situations.
Keywords: academic, freshman, online learning, student, case study
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