This research has been a great learning curve for me, which I’ve been led to understand is the point. Not only have I had to work in mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative), but I have had to learn on the job how to best deal with a cohort of students who are not only distant from me physically, but to a smaller, but varying degree, culturally. This has been a challenge, but also a remarkably enjoyable journey of self-discovery, self-mastery, and cultural engagement.
When I proposed this research it was suggested to me that I was biting off more than I chew, and that in fact I should really focus on developing a new theoretical framework to support research along a similar vein. While I believe my theoretical approach is philosophically valid, and sociologically intense and consistent, my main aim is to unabashedly shine a light for future Indonesian students in the UK and beyond.
In light of this, I have greatly enjoyed the process, even if I have made naive procedural errors along the way. These I’ve found enlightening, and allowed me to learn from my mistakes, to make my research more vigorous, detailed, understandable, and ultimately satisfied and successful.
Terima kasih murid!