RESIDENTIAL LIVING AND SOCIAL INTEGRATION: FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF NUS HALL OF RESIDENCES

Abstract

Residential living in university offers students a holistic university education and development. Living on campus provides the opportunity for students to meet new people from different countries and social-cultural background as well as participate in a wide range of activities. Home to both local and international students, social integration is essential in maintaining social cohesion of the community. Besides, social interaction in accommodation also aids in the acculturation process for international student and improve global fluency for local students. With these in mind, social integration in residence is there important to the university, local and international students.

This dissertation seeks to examine the factors in National University of Singapore (NUS) residence hall that promote interaction between local and international students as well as how the type of interactions in hall could enhance their ability to seek for support.

The findings from the survey found that proximity - living in the same level and block, exhibits significant correlation passive interaction whereas, activities - events & CCA, exhibits significant correlation with active interaction among international and local students. Likewise, international students who have active interaction with local students find it easier to seek support if they have problem as compared to those who only have passive interaction. With the abovementioned results, the study provides insights on areas that best promote cross-cultural interaction and the importance of active interaction. From the findings, recommendations are proposed to better enhance the social integration and mental support of international students.