Motivating elements and experiences of international students with educational tourism

Abstract

The concept of educational tourism has had an important place in the tourism sector. It emerged with the combination of the education sector and the tourism sector of many countries. The educational travels of students provide many economic and social benefits to the tourism sector. The study used qualitative research method for collecting data in north Cyprus which is recognized by only Turkey and its economy has depended on tourism and educational tourism for growth. Today, in North Cyprus, where are twenty-seven active higher education institutions and almost one thousand students from more than eighty different countries prefer to visit this island. The main aim of this study is the identification and examination of the motivation and experience of international students from various countries to participate in different educational programs and to continue their studying abroad and determination of the consequences of such decisions. The proposed topic can provide insights into the reasons for international students' motivation and experiences in North Cyprus, together with what factors influence their decision to do so. This information can be useful both for universities in North Cyprus and in other countries that are willing to recruit university students. The following are some helpful contributions that will be made by this study to the literature. There is currently an absence of study that investigates various institutions at the same time, notably how various locations within the same nation may demonstrate varying motivating elements. Previous research has mostly examined the driving factors of international students participating in educational tourism from a single point of view. Secondly, gaining data from more than one university will give the ability to the researcher to compare not only what motivates international students to choose North Cyprus as an educational tourism destination but will give more in-depth knowledge about the motivating factors to choose different universities in the same island and if their experience differs from each other within the same country. By achieving objectives of study, it aims to contribute to the existing literature on international students' motivations and experiences with educational tourism, specifically within the context of North Cyprus universities. The findings of this study can serve as a valuable resource for universities, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in promoting and facilitating educational tourism in the region, ultimately leading to improved recruitment strategies, enhanced student support services, and an enriched educational experience for international students in North Cyprus. Results of the study can be useful both for universities in North Cyprus and in other countries that are willing to recruit university students. The findings of this research show that Northern Cyprus can attract students for three reasons. Firstly, the educational quality and facilities are pretty good. It is one of the reasons why people study abroad. In Northern Cyprus, this is provided to students. Secondly, economically, and easy accessibility of Northern Cyprus is a big advantage for students from third country nations. Lastly, countries safe environment for foreigners is a big advantage for feeling safe and as well as respecting their culture.