Navigating Cultural Integration: The Role of Social Media Among Chinese Students in the UK

This study explores the utilization of social media platforms by Chinese students in the UK and their role in cultural adaptation and social integration. Utilizing a qualitative approach involving in-depth interviews, the research delves into how platforms such as WeChat and Little Red Book enhance students' abilities to navigate their host country's social and cultural nuances. The findings highlight that social media acts as a crucial tool for bridging the gap between Chinese cultural practices and the UK's academic and social environment. By facilitating communication with home and local communities, these platforms allow students to maintain cultural ties while integrating into their new surroundings. Moreover, the study identifies that the strategic use of social media supports academic performance and emotional well-being and develops a nuanced understanding of the host culture. However, challenges such as digital dependency and the balance of dual cultural identities emerge as significant concerns. This research contributes to the knowledge economy by demonstrating the transformative role of digital tools in managing the complexities of cultural transition. It provides actionable insights for academic institutions to leverage social media in supporting international students, fostering a more inclusive and integrated educational experience.