Navigating cultural integration: the role of social media among Chinese students in the UK

Guo, Wenxin (2024) Navigating cultural integration: the role of social media among Chinese students in the UK. Journal of the Knowledge Economy. ISSN 1868-7865

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Abstract

This study explores the utilization of social media platforms by Chinese students in the UK and their role in cultural adaptation and social integration. Utilizing a qualitative approach involving in-depth interviews, the research delves into how platforms such as WeChat and Little Red Book enhance students’ abilities to navigate their host country’s social and cultural nuances. The findings highlight that social media acts as a crucial tool for bridging the gap between Chinese cultural practices and the UK’s academic and social environment. By facilitating communication with home and local communities, these platforms allow students to maintain cultural ties while integrating into their new surroundings. Moreover, the study identifies that the strategic use of social media supports academic performance and emotional well-being and develops a nuanced understanding of the host culture. However, challenges such as digital dependency and the balance of dual cultural identities emerge as significant concerns. This research contributes to the knowledge economy by demonstrating the transformative role of digital tools in managing the complexities of cultural transition. It provides actionable insights for academic institutions to leverage social media in supporting international students, fostering a more inclusive and integrated educational experience.

Item Type:	Article
Official URL:	https://link.springer.com/journal/13132
Additional Information:	© 2024 The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature
Divisions:	Media and Communications
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HM Sociology H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races
Date Deposited:	10 Jun 2024 11:36
Last Modified:	16 Jul 2024 00:06
URI:	http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/123818

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