Adaptation to a new environment is crucial for successful engagement in the learning process. Pointing out the circumstances that influence adaptation will likely play a significant role in the adjustment process (Whenua & Zhe, 2013). For international students, the process of adaptation could often be a very stressful period. This study investigates the nature and effect of various stressors that international students encounter studying in NDHU (National Dong-Hwa University, Taiwan). The study aims to construct a specific questionnaire for international students in higher education (Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral Degrees) in Taiwan to facilitate their educational experience.

Abstract 3
Introduction 6
Literature Review 7
Purpose of the present study 15
Pilot Study 16
Methods 16
Design 16
Participants 17
Instruments 19
Analysis 19
Rotated Component Matrix 20
Pilot Study 20
Main Study 26
Methods 26
Design 26
Participants 27
Instruments 29
Analysis 30
Results 31
BAI and Demography 31
Linear Regression Analysis of Stressors 33
GAS 33
MDS 35
CDS 37
FNS 39
LBS 41
Multiple Regression Analysis 44
All Factors 44
Discussion 49
Study Limitations 61
Conclusion 61
References 63
Appendix I 71
Questionnaires 71
Pilot Study 71
Main Study 80
Appendix II 89
Part I: Informed Consent 89
Part II: Certificate of Consent 95
Appendix III 96
Recruitment of Participants for the Focus Group 96
Appendix IV 98
Recruitment of Participants for the Pilot & Main Studies 98
Appendix V 100
Script of the Focus Group Discussion 100

 

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