The effect of culture shock on english language learning of international students in India a study at the tertiary level

Abstract

India is a preferred destination for education, especially in the tertiary levels, as students from different parts of the world find it easy to obtain a bachelors or masters degree here. The main reasons for them to do so are that education is imparted in the English language, the cost of education is relatively low, duration for courses of study is less when compared to that of their western counterparts and most importantly, they find that the education imparted is of a high quality. It is not surprising then, that there is a large inflow of students from other Asian, Middle Eastern and African countries. These students prefer to study in the metropolises in India as there is a common notion that these cities provide the necessary ambience and atmosphere for easy adjustment into the new culture. However, international students in India encounter several situations arising from cultural differences between their home country and the host country. More often than not, these encounters give rise to mental, physical and psychological stress which together is termed as Culture Shock . newlineIn the recent decades innumerable researches have been conducted and have proved that this phenomenon of culture shock is not just a passing phase or a fleeting feeling of home sickness. It is a very real and painful experience which has been likened to a disease- complete with symptoms and cures. Several researchers such as Kalervo Oberg, Cora Du Bois, H.D. Brown and John Schumann have identified the various stages that individuals go through as they experience culture shock. Although the period of time taken to move from stage to stage may differ from individual to individual all of them go through these stages. newlineIn the first stage he experiences euphoria when he steps into a new country. Every experience seems new and exciting and the individual feels like a tourist, eager to learn everything he can about his new home.