There is an emerging focus on how international students exercise their agency and utilise their own resources to enhance their employability. However, the deficit view on international students’ English language and communication skills often overlooks their agency and active role in learning. Several studies have examined the dynamics and outcomes of international students’ informal peer learning networks and interactions, demonstrating the importance of student agency. Research also highlights peer brokering as an important form of academic support and student agency.

Webinar focus

This webinar, with Dr Sherrie Lee, presented the findings of research on brokering practices among international students at a New Zealand university. The focused ethnography research shows that peer brokering often occurs among students of similar ethno-lingual backgrounds and involves timely, supportive exchanges. These interactions help students exercise agency and improve their academic experience. To enhance international students’ employability, the study suggests that educators should facilitate targeted and regular opportunities for international students to connect with experienced peers, such as through networking events and mentorship programs.

Presenter: 

Dr Sherrie Lee is a Career Consultant at Victoria University of Wellington. Sherrie has a career portfolio that spans education, policy implementation and stakeholder engagement. She has worked in the public sector in New Zealand, and was a conflict management trainer and business communications lecturer in Singapore where she is from. Sherrie has a PhD in Education from the University of Waikato, a Master of Arts in TESOL from the University of Southern California and is a Professional Member of the Career Development Association of New Zealand. She maintains a personal website called The Diasporic Academic where she shares her experiences of being diasporic.

About the Manako Programme Webinar series

Each month the Ako Aotearoa Manako programme offers a free webinar featuring subject matter experts around topics that support educators working with adult learners.

Further information can be found on the Manako Communities of Practice Facebook groups. If you're not already a member, you're invited to join.