Engaging International Students via Dialogic Communication

Abstract

This study explores the role of communication in engaging international students at higher education institutions, focusing on the efficacy of communication strategies, channels and tactics, and the involvement of key campus players. Using a co-oriented approach, this study gathered insights via 16 in-depth interviews with administrators and faculty/staff, who had 5 years of experience communicating with international students, and 2 focus groups of approximately 19 international students. The findings highlight discrepancies between university representatives and international students about the use of dialogic communication, communication channels, and tactics as strategies for engagement.