An Exploration of Chinese International Students's Perceptions of How Their Identities Change Under the Impact of Covid-19

Abstract

After the outbreak of Covid-19, there is evidence to suggest that there had been an increase in discrimination against Chinese international students globally. During the pandemic, students were required to follow control measures such as social distancing and attending online classes, which could lead to negative emotions and alienation from the host society. In addition, studying and living in a society with unfamiliar norms, traditions and education systems may lead to changes in identities. Combined with common challenges facing international students in their adaption to the host society, the problems caused by the pandemic may further impose negative influences on students’ lives in the host society. Moreover, sandwiched between the different attitudes and policies of the Chinese/Irish governments towards Covid-19, Chinese international students’ national identities may change during their stay in Ireland. This research aims to explore how Covid-19 influences Chinese international students’ acculturation process and how they make meanings of their identities.