Email fenca314@student.otago.ac.nz
Qualifications
Master of Education in assessment and pedagogy, University of Melbourne, Bachelor of Arts in Education and French, University of Otago
Background
Kexin Feng is a full-time PhD student in Higher Education. Originally from Beijing, I obtained my BA from the University of Otago majoring in Education and minoring in French. I also took some Japanese courses, and, in the midst, I exchanged to Kyoto University for one semester.
Subsequently, I pursued my MEd at the University of Melbourne. My doctoral research focuses on international students from non-English speaking backgrounds, exploring their academic motivation and first-year experiences. Having obtained my master’s degree in education, I bring a strong foundation in the field and a deep interest in addressing current challenges in higher education.
Outside of my academic pursuits, I engage in exam supervision work for students with disabilities and actively participate in volunteer activities.
Research title
The academic motivation and first year experiences of international students from non-English speaking backgrounds at the University of Otago.
PhD start
August 2023
Research summary
In contemporary academia, an increasing number of students from non-English speaking backgrounds are seeking for higher education in English speaking countries. This research focuses on the first year of their academic journey, recognising it as a crucial juncture that significantly shapes the values, attitudes, and learning behaviours of these young adults from diverse cultural backgrounds.
This study aims to investigate the relationship between academic motivation and first-year experiences among this cohort at the University of Otago. By shedding light on this underexplored topic within New Zealand context, this study promotes a diverse and inclusive academic community. Ultimately, the findings are expected to offer valuable insights that can support the university in enhancing the overall quality of first year education for its diverse student population.
Research interests
- Academic motivation
- First-year experiences
- Transition education
- Parenting styles
Activities and roles
- Refugee support volunteer for New Zealand Red Cross
- Research assistant with Higher Education Development Centre
- Test and examination supervisor for Disability Information and Support
- Postgraduate student deputy (co-representative) for Higher Education Development Centre
- Global citizen orientation volunteer for UoO international office
Supervisors
- Dr Rob Wass
- Dr Lee Adam
- Professor Rachel Spronken-Smith (advisor)