Does Accessing International Social Media Create a Pathway for Global Citizenship Education? A Study of Mainland Chinese Students in Australian Universities

Abstract

This study explores how Chinese international students understand global citizenship, and how international social media influences their global citizenship during their time abroad. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research draws on a survey of 361 students, alongside single and follow-up interviews with 22 participants from universities across Australia. The findings suggest that most students lack a clear understanding of global citizenship. Many recognize its associated values, demonstrate relevant competencies, and identify themselves as global citizens, yet they often display limited global participation. International social media serves as a pathway for global citizenship education. It provides students with access to global affairs and opportunities for cross-cultural engagement to improve foreign language proficiency, expand global knowledge and cultivate global values. The interplay between international social media exposure and offline cross-cultural interactions strengthens critical thinking skills and intercultural competencies among students. Even so, international social media cannot cultivate global identity directly. Students develop global identity during their studying abroad through a sense of connection generated from cross-cultural interactions. International social media usage and cross-cultural interaction among students are shaped by individual acculturation strategies.