Assessment of Diversity Through Student Isolation: Qualitative Investigation of Academic, Social, and Emotional Isolation

As higher education institutions grow as a commodity with diversified groups of local and international students, it is imperative for students, educators and policy makers to identify and address concerns that might arise from such amalgamation of cultures and experiences. In light of this interest, this article shares qualitative findings on how experiences of student isolation can cause deleterious effects on students' university learning experiences. In-depth interviews were conducted with a total of five Malaysian and International students to discuss their student isolation experiences and how it engaged them in the overall university learning experience. The findings disclosed key factors that can potentially cause student isolation in aspects of academic, social and emotional development, and these key factors were critically examined to identify mitigation measures. Findings from this study addressed clear evidence to how student isolation can negatively affect one's university learning experience, especially among international students who are not used to diverse education process, curriculum and expectations. UCSI University anchors great depth of interest in engaging students on holistic and successful university learning experience to ensure holistic development of graduates.