Paper Type
Complete
Paper Number
PACIS2025-1311
Description
This study explores the pre-arrival information needs, sources, and challenges of international students in Indonesia. Drawing on qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 51 newly arrived students, the findings highlight seven key information topics. Less recognized needs, such as banking and mental health services, were often overlooked before arrival. Students consulted institutional websites, peer networks, and digital platforms but faced barriers including language limitations, outdated content, and usability issues. Compared to peers in the Global North, students in Indonesia prioritized safety concerns and adapting to local digital systems due to infrastructural and cultural differences. In contrast, students in the Global North often focus on long-term settlement and career planning. This study underscores the need for universities in the Global South to proactively identify and address latent student needs, improve multilingual access, and strengthen digital information systems to support international students’ transition and well-being.
Recommended Citation
Fadhli, Rahmat; Chang, Shanton; and Mendoza, Antonette, "International Students Seeking Online Information in the Global South: Information Topics, Sources and Challenges" (2025). PACIS 2025 Proceedings. 4.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/pacis2025/is_education/is_education/4
International Students Seeking Online Information in the Global South: Information Topics, Sources and Challenges
This study explores the pre-arrival information needs, sources, and challenges of international students in Indonesia. Drawing on qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 51 newly arrived students, the findings highlight seven key information topics. Less recognized needs, such as banking and mental health services, were often overlooked before arrival. Students consulted institutional websites, peer networks, and digital platforms but faced barriers including language limitations, outdated content, and usability issues. Compared to peers in the Global North, students in Indonesia prioritized safety concerns and adapting to local digital systems due to infrastructural and cultural differences. In contrast, students in the Global North often focus on long-term settlement and career planning. This study underscores the need for universities in the Global South to proactively identify and address latent student needs, improve multilingual access, and strengthen digital information systems to support international students’ transition and well-being.
Comments
e-Learning