This study explores the active non-STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) educational choices made by young women who grew up in a STEM occupational habitus, yet deviated from the expected trajectory exemplified by their parents. Employing Bourdieu's concept of occupational habitus and the Microclass Mobility Model, the study…

International student mobility increases student diversity, fosters different perspectives, and contributes to human capital. Turkey has gradually increased international student numbers, making investigating their challenges and academic success factors essential. This study examines the adaptation processes of 62 language preparatory students at…

To examine the existing body of empirical research on social self-efficacy in international students, a systematic review of the peer-reviewed literature was conducted, with a focus on articles published between 2013 and 2024. Four inclusion and exclusion criteria guided the search process across the Scopus, ProQuest, PsycINFO, and ERIC databases.…

This study investigates the motivational factors influencing Muslim students' decisions to pursue higher education in Northern Cyprus, focusing on the interplay of cultural, religious, and academic considerations. Drawing on data from two leading institutions from North Cyprus, we explore students' academic, social, and cultural experiences within…

We use three studies to develop and validate the new concept of playful study design -- the cognitive-behavioral orientation towards study tasks with the aim to make these tasks more fun and/or more challenging. Based on play and proactive motivation theories, we propose that playful study design can be assessed by items indicating two dimensions:…

Mature adults comprise more than half of the UK higher education student population, indicating significant growth in participation opportunities. However, this expansion has not necessarily resulted in equal educational quality and outcomes for adult learners. This study addresses the research gap regarding the availability and quality of support…

This study examines the identity negotiation of Muslim female international students in ESL classrooms in the mid-southern United States, where linguistic adaptation and cultural integration pressures intersect. Drawing on intersectionality, postcolonial feminism, and Kim's International Student Identity Model, this research highlights how these…