An examination of the orientation needs of international students at the Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to: (a) clarify the meaning, of "orientation", (b) evaluate effectiveness of the international student orientation program, (c) determine whether the program, met the needs of the survey respondents, and (d) ascertain the most appropriate method for the delivery of the pre-departure materials, and ideal schedule for the on-site orientation program. The research study was conducted at the Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, in Toronto, Ontario. -- A convenience sample was used, drawing respondents from the 2006-2007 academic cohort. The respondents were asked to complete a web-based survey. From the study's findings, the respondents equated the term "orientation" as the means for learning more about Humber and it services. They indicated that the two primary resources they used for their pre-departure preparation were: (a) viewing the Humber international student website, and (b) dialoguing with family, friends and alumni. Their primary orientation needs were consistent with the basic needs addressed in Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs theory. It was found that the respondents preferred to continue to receive pre-departure materials through regular mail, and that the scheduling of the on-site orientation remain the same. The data results were discussed, and recommendations for program improvements and future research were provided.