'Studying in this England is wahala (trouble)': analysing the experiences of West African students in a UK higher education institution. Issue 11 (2nd November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Owusu-Kwarteng, Louise
• Is Part Of: Studies in higher education. Volume 46:Issue 11(2021)
• Page Start: 2405
• Page End: 2416
• Publication Date: 2021-11-02
• Subjects: Academic acculturation -- cultural capital -- social capital -- stereotypes -- student experience; Education, Higher -- Periodicals; 378.005
• DOI: 10.1080/03075079.2020.1723528
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0307-5079

Abstract

ABSTRACT: 'Studying in this England is Wahala' critically analyses social/academic experiences of 12 West African overseas undergraduate/postgraduate students in a London University. It discusses structural and individual factors impacting on decisions to study here, including perceptions of differences between quality of university education in the UK and 'back home'. To analyse this, I draw on the 'Push-Pull' model and Gidden's (1991) Structuration approach as theoretical frameworks. I also examine students' experiences of adapting to life in the UK, views on teaching and learning experiences in the UK and their home countries, and strategies used to facilitate their educational success. In so doing positives and challenges faced by students are highlighted. These were largely shaped by staff-student relationships, some of which were positive and supportive. In others, racism was prevalent, which reflects ongoing debates about Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) student experiences in UK Higher Education institutions.