Published in the International Journal of Work-Integrated Learning, this peer-reviewed study explores how cultural values, norms, and expectations influence learning, workplace integration, and professional identity development among international students participating in work-integrated learning (WIL) experiences in Canada. The research draws on focus group interviews with participants representing 11 countries and 11 academic disciplines to better understand the intercultural challenges individuals encounter when transitioning into Western educational and workplace environments.
Key Findings
The study identified four major factors influencing workplace integration and intercultural development:
Adapting to reduced power distance and more egalitarian relationships with instructors, supervisors, and managers.
Adjusting to increased individualism and workplace expectations related to initiative, self-promotion, independence, and accountability.
The critical role of friendships, mentorship, social support, and informal learning in successful integration.
The importance of communication confidence and self-efficacy in language learning and workplace participation.
Why This Research Matters
The findings challenge the assumption that workplace difficulties experienced by newcomers or international students are simply individual performance issues. Instead, the research demonstrates how cultural differences influence communication, leadership expectations, learning styles, relationship building, teamwork, problem-solving, and perceptions of professionalism.
The study argues that many organizations and educational institutions evaluate employability skills, leadership potential, engagement, initiative, and communication through culturally constructed Western frameworks that may unintentionally disadvantage individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
Practical Applications
This research provides valuable insights for:
Human Resources professionals
Organizational leaders and managers
Educators and trainers
Workforce development professionals
Career practitioners
Work-integrated learning coordinators
Organizations seeking to recruit, engage, and retain diverse talent
The findings informed the development of Brian Rochat’s proprietary Axis of Intercultural Discovery and Development in the Western Workplace, a practical framework used to identify barriers to workforce integration, strengthen intercultural intelligence, and support inclusive workplace development.
What Readers Will Gain
Readers will gain a deeper understanding of how culture shapes workplace behaviours, communication styles, leadership expectations, learning preferences, and employee experiences. The research offers evidence-informed strategies for supporting workforce integration, improving intercultural communication, strengthening mentorship and onboarding practices, and building more inclusive and effective workplaces.
Citation:
Rochat, B. (2025). Navigating Norms: Supporting International Students in Work-Integrated Learning and (Re)Establishing Professional Identities. International Journal of Work-Integrated Learning, 26(3), 523-537.
