Acculturation Experiences of Taiwanese Students During Exchanges in the United States

Abstract

This phenomenological study examined the acculturation experience of Taiwanese students who attended universities in the United States as exchange students. Hofstede`s four dimensions of culture provided a framework for developing questions. Eight exchange students were interviewed. Taiwanese students realized there was a lower power distance between American professors and students and that American students were more relaxed in uncertain situations, competed on class projects and activities, and expected individualistic behavior. Most exchange students were anxious in the beginning but all said they adjusted to the Socratic learning method and performed well.