Reconceptualizing the notion of “study” while studying abroad

International students at a Thai university

Authors

  • Sirirat Na Ranong Thammasat University, Thailand
  • Michael Byram Durham University, UK

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/eymkng42

Keywords:

concepts of teaching and learning, academic culture, student mobility, Thailand, Southeast Asia

Abstract

This study explores the academic experiences of 14 international students at Thailand’s Faculty of Liberal Arts and how these experiences reshape their concept of “study.” Findings from the interview show that students modified the concept of study after encountering new experiences of teaching and learning, shifting from viewing learning as an individual, lecture-based activity to embracing a collaborative approach. This shift in subjective culture is reflected in material culture, underscoring how these cultural aspects reinforce one another. Overall, the findings challenge the conventional East-West academic culture dichotomy, revealing a blended approach that defies simplistic cultural divides. Also, it demonstrates the applicability of Huber & Reynolds’ (2014) model—which considers material, social and subjective aspects of culture—as a valuable framework for examining academic culture. Though small in scope, this study provides insights into student’s reconceptualisation of “study” in the Southeast Asian context and offers a foundation for future research on academic culture.

Author Biographies

  • Sirirat Na Ranong, Thammasat University, Thailand

    Sirirat Na Ranong, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the English Department, Faculty of Liberal Arts, Thammasat University. Her research interests include foreign language teaching, intercultural communication and world Englishes.

  • Michael Byram, Durham University, UK

    Michael Byram, PhD, is FAcSS and is Professor Emeritus of the School of Education, Durham University (UK), and Bualuang ASEAN Chair Professor at Thammasat University (Thailand). His research interests include intercultural communication and foreign language studies and doctoral research as experienced by students, supervisors and examiners.

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Published

2025-07-02

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Vol. 15 No. 7 (2025): Journal of International Students

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Research Articles (English, regular edition)

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How to Cite

Na Ranong, S., & Byram, M. . (2025). Reconceptualizing the notion of “study” while studying abroad: International students at a Thai university. Journal of International Students, 15(7), 109-126. https://doi.org/10.32674/eymkng42