Enhancing University Education Business: Motivations of Chinese Students Studying in Thailand

Abstract

This qualitative study investigates the motivations driving Chinese students to pursue higher education in Thailand, focusing on both undergraduates and doctoral students during the academic years 2021 and 2022. This research comprises 15 Chinese doctoral students enrolled at a public university in Bangkok and 43 Chinese undergraduates in bachelor’s programs at a private university. Data collection occurred in two phases: the first during the second semester of 2021, targeting undergraduates, and the second in the first semester of 2022, focusing on doctoral students. Content Analysis was employed as the chosen methodology for data analysis, with the overarching aim of enhancing educational services for Chinese students in Thailand. Chinese students are drawn to Thai universities for various compelling reasons. These institutions uphold rigorous educational standards and offer flexible teaching methods that accommodate in-person, onsite, and online learning preferences. Language barriers are adeptly addressed through Chinese translators, facilitating the seamless translation of academic content, while instructors proficiently switch between Thai and Chinese during lectures. An integrated approach encourages Chinese students to develop Thai language skills alongside their chosen fields of study, with some even engaging in teaching Chinese to Thai high school students, thus creating potential career opportunities in education. Doctoral programs offer more intensive and complex instruction, including in-depth examples and case studies. Graduate students express profound satisfaction with the quality of education and deeply value the unexpected insights gained during their studies. In summary, Chinese students are increasingly drawn to Thai universities due to their unwavering commitment to high educational standards, adaptable teaching methods, comprehensive language support, and the unique opportunities for language acquisition and teaching experience they offer. This enriching academic environment not only benefits Chinese students but also contributes positively to Thailand’s educational landscape and internationalization efforts.