International students’ strategies for overcoming barriers in learning Indonesian
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17509/cdcenb50Keywords:
Language learning strategy, linguistic barriers, Indonesian for Speakers of Other Languages, international studentAbstract
The number of international students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds is growing, largely due to increased global mobility, which leads to more interactions with their local counterparts in host nations. These interactions often present cultural, linguistic, and psychological barriers, particularly when it comes to adapting to new environments and engaging with different social and cultural norms. This qualitative study examines the barriers that overseas students encounter when studying Indonesian in an academic setting in Indonesia, as well as the strategies they employ to overcome these barriers. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 11 international students from Gambia, Pakistan, Egypt, and Yemen who voluntarily participated in this case study. Thematic analysis revealed that these students encounter barriers in their Indonesian language learning journey. These barriers include linguistic barriers (such as a lack of vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammatical difficulties), cultural barriers (misunderstandings related to language politeness and social norms), and psychological barriers (including anxiety, frustration, and low self-efficacy) when learning the Indonesian language. To overcome these challenges, students employ diverse strategies, including interacting with native speakers, utilizing technology, engaging with the local community, seeking peer support, and practicing self-regulated learning, to enhance their language acquisition and cultural integration. The findings have both academic and practical implications for curriculum development and teacher training, helping to create more enriching learning experiences for international students studying Indonesian within a rich intercultural and applied linguistics framework.
Downloads
References
Andriyanto, O. D., Hardika, M., Sukarman, & Panich, P. (2023). Interactive media to explore local wisdom in learning BIPA distance at the Indonesian Embassy in Bern, Switzerland. Al-Ishlah: Jurnal Pendidikan, 15(4), 4640–4649. https://doi.org/10.35445/alishlah.v15i4.4614
Agca, R. K., & Ozdemir, S. (2013). Foreign language vocabulary learning with mobile technologies. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 83, 781–785. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2013.06.147
Aguskin, L., & Maryani. (2020). Investigating the use of project-based learning in enhancing Indonesian university students’ cultural knowledge. Humaniora, 11(3), 203–210. https://doi.org/10.21512/humaniora.v11i3.6645
Alqahtani, M. (2015). The importance of vocabulary in language learning and how to be taught. International Journal of Teaching and Education, 3, 21–34. https://doi.org/http://10.52950/TE.2015.3.3.002
Antonia, T., & Limone, P. (2020). E-learning, MALL and LMOOC or a new didactic tendency in foreign language learning: A meta-analysis from 2014 to 2018. Psychology, 11(4), 581–593. https://doi.org/10.4236/psych.2020.114039
Astley, M. (2024). Cross-cultural challenges faced by international students: A case study of Indian postgraduate students at a London-based business school. Journal of International Students, 14(4), 971–988. https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v14i4.6765
Bai, B., & Wang, J. (2020). The role of growth mindset, self-efficacy and intrinsic value in self-regulated learning and English language learning achievements. Language Teaching Research, 27(1), 207-228. https://doi.org/10.1177/1362168820933190
Benson, P. (2007). Autonomy in language teaching and learning. Language Teaching, 40(1), 21-40. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0261444806003958
Bernard, R. & Kermarrec, G. (2022). Peer assessment and video feedback for fostering self, co, and shared regulation of learning in a higher education language classroom. Frontiers in Education, 7, 732094. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2022.732094
Bibi, F., & Hamida, L. (2024). Exploring communication patterns among international students in Indonesia: A study using communication accommodation theory. Cogent Arts & Humanities, 11(1), 239718. https://doi.org/10.1080/23311983.2024.2397188
Boddy, C. R. (2016). Sample size for qualitative research. Qualitative Market Research: An International Journal, 19(4), 426–432. https://doi.org/10.1108/QMR-06-2016-0053
Boeriswati, E., Ningsih, R. Y., & Rahayu, W. (2023). Web-based design of BIPA placement test instrument for foreign speakers. International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, 22(2), 392–412. https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.22.2.22
Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2021). Thematic analysis: A practical guide. Sage.
Carhill‐Poza, A. (2015). Opportunities and outcomes: The role of peers in developing the oral academic English proficiency of adolescent English learners. Modern Language Journal, 99(4), 678-695. https://doi.org/10.1111/modl.12271
Chung, D. (2024). Language learning through a cultural lens: Assessing the benefits of cultural understanding in language education. International Journal of Social Science and Human Research, 7(07), 82. https://doi.org/10.47191/ijsshr/v7-i07-82
Dolzhich, E., Dmitrichenkova, S., & Ibrahim, M. (2021). Using m-learning technology in teaching foreign languages: A panacea during COVID-19 pandemic era. International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies, 15(15), 20-32. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijim.v15i15.22895
Dörnyei, Z. (2019). Towards a better understanding of the L2 learning experience, the Cinderella of the L2 motivational self-system. Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching, 9(1), 19–30. https://doi.org/10.14746/ssllt.2019.9.1.2
Elheneidy, S. S. A. M., & Mohd, Z. S. (2025). Exploring challenges and coping strategies for mental well-being among international students in Malaysia. Journal of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development, 11(1), 19–34. https://doi.org/10.33736/jcshd.8719.2025
Ennin, F., & Manariyo, E. (2023). Language as communication barrier for foreign students: Evidence from Gujarat State Universities. European Journal of Education and Pedagogy, 4(6), 71–77. https://doi.org/10.24018/ejedu.2023.4.6.697
Ferdiansyah, S., Supiastutik, & Angin, R. (2020). Thai students’ experiences of online learning at Indonesian universities in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of International Students, 10(S3), 19–34. https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v10iS3.3199
Fitria, T. N. (2023a). Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) standard in bahasa Indonesia bagi Penutur Asing (BIPA) textbook: A competency mapping analysis. Lingua Didaktika, 17(2), 135–156. http://doi.org/10.24036/ld.v17i2.124244
Fitria, T. N. (2023b). Introducing bahasa Indonesia bagi penutur asing (BIPA): Method and challenges of teaching Indonesian as a foreign language (IFL). Inovasi Kurikulum, 20(2), 205–224. https://doi.org/10.17509/jik.v20i2.60374
Glaser, B. G., & Strauss, A. L. (1967). The discovery of grounded theory: Strategies for qualitative research. Aldine.
Gong, Y., Gao, X., Li, M., & Lai, C. (2020). Cultural adaptation challenges and strategies during study abroad: New Zealand students in China. Language, Culture and Curriculum, 34(4), 417–437. https://doi.org/10.1080/07908318.2020.1856129
Hamid, A. A., Rosli, L., & Yunus, M. M. (2019). Wall attack in padlet in enhancing vocabulary acquisition. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 9(1), 5458. https://doi.org/10.6007/ijarbss/v9-i1/5458.
Handrianto, C., Solfema, S., & Jusoh, A. J. (2024). Cultural adaptation and academic success: Exploring the experiences of Indonesian students in Malaysian universities. Journal of Ethnic and Cultural Studies, 12(3), 251–280. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejecs/2496
Hardini, T. I., Setyarini, S, & Harto, S. (2021). The future of BIPA teachers: A model of in-country selection and professional development for overseas employment. Advances in Social Science, Education and Humanities Research - Proceedings of the Fifth International Conference on Language, Literature, Culture, and Education (ICOLLITE 2021), 595, 680-688. https://doi.org/10.2991/assehr.k.211119.105
Hastowohadi, H., Ma'rifatulloh, S., & Widiantari, M. M. (2025). Exploring intercultural competence. Journal of International Students, 15(3), 1-19. https://doi.org/10.32674/628yr447
Huang, Y. (2023). Examining the relationship between peer support and foreign language emotions in online learning: The mediating effect of self-efficacy. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1-11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1148472
Indah, N. N., Yunita, W., & Maisarah, I. (2023). Language learning strategies: a case of Indonesian students studying in the United Kingdom. Journal of English Education and Teaching, 7(4), 1135-1155. https://doi.org/10.33369/jeet.7.4.1135-1155
Irayanti, I., Sapriya, S., Suryadi, K., & Komalasari, K. (2025). Promoting ethical behavior through intercultural education: A narrative inquiry of international students’ experiences in Indonesia. Journal of International Students, 15(2), 1-18. https://doi.org/10.32674/v6nmpj51
Isnaniah, S., & Islahuddin. (2020). Management of Indonesian language learning for foreign speakers (BIPA) at Islamic religious higher education institutions (PTKI) in Indonesia and Thailand. Jurnal Pendidikan Islam. 9(1), 1-28. https://doi.org/10.14421/jpi.2020.91.1-27
Khanal, J., & Gaulee, U. (2019). Challenges of international students from pre-departure to post-study: A literature review. Journal of International Students, 9(2), 560-581. https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v9i2.673
Khodaparast, S. M. & Keshmirshekan, M. H. (2021). Task-induced involvement load, vocabulary learning and reading comprehension among Iranian intermediate English as a foreign language learners. International Journal of Linguistics, Literature and Translation, 4(11), 210-218. https://doi.org/10.32996/ijllt.2021.4.11.23
Kuncahyo, N. L. U., Madjid, H. I., Rakhmawati, Da-Oh, M., Syaifudin, M. (2023). Exploring cultural barriers of Indonesian pre-service English teachers during their teaching practice at primary school in Thailand. International Journal of Education, 8(2), 151-167. https://doi.org/10.18860/abj.v8i2.24242
Lai, C., & Zheng, D. (2018). Self-directed use of mobile devices for language learning beyond the classroom. ReCALL, 30(3), 299–318. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0958344017000258
Lin, D. T. A. (2016). Trends in second/foreign language teaching and learning: The position assigned to the learning of lexis over the years. Advances in Language and Literary Studies, 7(6), 84-90. https://doi.org/10.7575/aiac.alls.v.7n.6p.84
Lysak, H. (2022). Implementation of immersive technologies in foreign language learning: Analysis of foreign and domestic (Ukrainian) experience. Comparative Professional Pedagogy, 12(1), 78-85. https://doi.org/10.31891/2308-4081/2022-12(1)-8
Magyar, A., Habók, A., & Molnár, G. (2022). Exploring the role of English as a foreign language receptive skills and learning strategy usage in the ability to acquire and apply knowledge at the beginning of higher education. Frontiers in Psychology, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.808546
Marsevani, M., Yanelyn, W., Fahlianti, D., Suksawai, P.,Tohmi, N., Jacson, P. (2023). Analysis of the difficulties in learning Indonesian for foreign students in Batam. Interference: Journal of Language Literature and Linguistics, 4(2), 162-177. https://doi.org/10.26858/interference.v4i2.48606.
Martono, M., Dewantara, J., Efriani, E., & Prasetiyo, W. (2021). The national identity on the border: Indonesian language awareness and attitudes through multi‐ethnic community involvement. Journal of Community Psychology, 50(1), 111-125. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcop.22505
Mehrabian, N., & Salehi, H. (2019). The effects of using diverse vocabulary learning strategies on word mastery: A review. Journal of Applied Studies in Language, 3(1), 100-114. https://doi.org/10.31940/jasl.v3i1.1368
Miralpeix, I. & Muñoz, C. (2018). Receptive vocabulary size and its relationship to EFL language skills. International Review of Applied Linguistics in Language Teaching, 56(1), 1-24. https://doi.org/10.1515/iral-2017-0016
Moghadam, S. H., Zainal, Z., Ghaderpour, M. (2012). A review on the important role of vocabulary knowledge in reading comprehension performance. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 6, 555-563. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2012.11.300
Mudiono, A., Wiyono, B., Supriyanto, A., & Wong, K. (2023). The effects of the communicative approach and the use of information technology on students’ motivation and achievement in Indonesian language learning. Journal of Language Teaching and Research, 14(3), 808-819. https://doi.org/10.17507/jltr.1403.29
Muzdalifah & Herningtias, E. (2021). Online learning platforms for teaching Indonesian to foreign speakers. KnE Social Sciences, 5(3), 228–234. https://doi.org/10.18502/kss.v5i3.8543
Naif, A. H & Saad, N. S. M. (2017). Language learning strategies use and challenges faced by adult Arab learners of Finnish as a second language in Finland. English Language Teaching, 10(4), 111-126. http://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v10n4p111
Nation, I. S. P. (2022). Learning vocabulary in another language. (3rd ed.). Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009093873
Ndiangui, P., Zhang, J., Ozfidan, B., & Halpern, C. (2024). Navigating cross-cultural challenges: A phenomenological study on strategies for international faculty in higher education to support local students. Journal of Culture and Values in Education, 7(2), 284-297. https://doi.org/10.46303/jcve.2024.24
Nugraheni, A.S., Lestari, S. ., Husain, A. P. ., & Susanto, E. . (2021). Development of online SABASIA (Suka Bahasa Indonesia) teaching materials for Indonesian language learning for international students as a pioneer for FIBAA international accredited study programs at state Islamic universities. Jurnal Pendidikan Islam, 10(1), 133–158. https://doi.org/10.14421/jpi.2021.101.133-158
Oduwaye, O., Kiraz, A., & Sorakin, Y. (2023). A trend analysis of the challenges of international students over 21 years. SAGE Open, 13(4), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440231210387
Pan, X., & Yuan, Z. (2023). Examining the association between peer support and English enjoyment in Chinese university students: The mediating role of regulatory emotional self-efficacy. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1278899
Pratama, F. (2024). Challenges encountered by newly arrived Thai students when learning Indonesian as a foreign language. International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education. 13(1), 635-642. http://doi.org/10.11591/ijere.v13i1.26943
Purpura, D. J., Logan, J. A. R., Hassinger‐Das, B., & Napoli, A. R. (2017). Why do early mathematics skills predict later reading? the role of mathematical language. Developmental Psychology, 53(9), 1633-1642. https://doi.org/10.1037/dev0000375
Rachman, İ. and Suyitno, S. (2019). Cultural issues in Indonesian language learning for foreign speakers. International Journal of Educational Research Review, 4(3), 454-460. https://doi.org/10.24331/ijere.573951
Rafique, S., Waqas, A., & Shahid, C. (2023). The correlation between vocabulary knowledge and English language proficiency at undergraduate level. Pakistan Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 11(2), 1132–1141. https://doi.org/10.52131/pjhss.2023.1102.0422
Rahmatika, L., Sariasih, Y., Islam, M. M., Solihati, T. A., & Haryanto, S. (2025). BIPA teachers’ perspectives on Digital Game-Based Language Learning (DGBLL): Attitudes, benefits and challenges in teaching Indonesian as a foreign language communication. Indonesian Journal of Applied Linguistics, 15(1), 183-197. https://doi.org/10.17509/ijal.v15i1.75959
Salamah, S., & Setiawati, E. (2023). Articulatory phonetic errors and patterns in Thai BIPA speakers: A study at SWM School Thailand. Indonesian Journal of Applied Linguistics, 13(3), 573-587. https://doi.org/10.17509/ijal.v13i3.66948
Salazar, J. M. A. & Salazar, E. A. A. (2024). Memory strategies focused on English vocabulary learning: A case study in a public high school in Loja city. LATAM Revista Latinoamericana De Ciencias Sociales Y Humanidades, 5(3), 1005 – 1012. https://doi.org/10.56712/latam.v5i3.2093
Seri, E. & Sutrisno, W. (2021). Design and development of mobile application in Indonesian language learning for foreign speakers level A1. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 1830(1), 1-14. https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1742-6596/1830/1/012009/pdf
Sinaga, W. (2024). Digital communications and culture: Navigating challenges in education and business. Journal of Media Culture and Communication, 4(6), 22-29. https://doi.org/10.55529/jmcc.46.22.29
Srikandi, C. N. (2022). Thailand students’ difficulties and motivation in studying BIPA at Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara. Jurnal As-Salam, 6(2), 229-243. https://doi.org/10.37249/assalam.v6i2.485
Su, L., Noordin, N., & Yang, D. (2023). Unraveling the path to success: exploring self-regulated language learning among Chinese College EFL learners. Sage Open, 13(4), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440231218537.
Subandiyah, H. (2023). Teaching Indonesian language for foreign speakers in the State University of Surabaya: Strategies and challenges. Randwick International of Education and Linguistics Science Journal, 4(2), 193-198. https://doi.org/10.47175/rielsj.v4i2.667
Susanto, G., Pickus, D., Espree-Conaway, D., Suparmi, Rusiandi, A., & Noviya, H. (2024). Indonesian language policy and perspectives on its implementation in promoting Bahasa Indonesia as an international language. Cogent Arts & Humanities, 11(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1080/23311983.2024.2364511
Suyitno, I., Susanto, G., Kamal, M., & Fawzi, A. (2018). Cognitive learning strategy of BIPA students in learning the Indonesian language. Iafor Journal of Language Learning, 3(2), 175-190. https://doi.org/10.22492/ijll.3.2.08
Thomas, D. R. (2006). A general inductive approach for analyzing qualitative evaluation data. American Journal of Evaluation, 27(2), 237-246. https://doi.org/10.1177/1098214005283748
Tiawati, R., Kurnia, M., Nazriani, N., Annisa, W., & Harahap, S. (2024). Cultural literacy in Indonesian language learning for foreign speakers (BIPA): Overcoming barriers and fostering language proficiency with cross-cultural understanding issues. Journal of Pragmatics and Discourse Research, 4(1), 22-31. https://doi.org/10.51817/jpdr.v4i1.739
Wachyunni, S., Abrar, M., Istifada, I., Harjono, H. S., & Hendra, R. (2023). Challenges faced by international students: A case study of Jambi’s institute of higher learning. Dinamika Ilmu, 23(1), 37-52. https://doi.org/10.21093/di.v23i1.5995.f
Wang, L. (2021). The role of students’ self-regulated learning, grit, and resilience in second language learning. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 1-7. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.800488
Wang, X. (2022). The role of glosses in l2 incidental vocabulary acquisition in reading. International Journal of Linguistics, Literature and Translation, 5(10), 149-153. https://doi.org/10.32996/ijllt.2022.5.10.17
Wang, Y., Derakhshan, A., & Zhang, L. J. (2021). Researching and practicing positive psychology in second/foreign language learning and teaching: The past, current status and future directions. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 731721. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.731721
Wang, Y. &Treffers‐Daller, J. (2017). Explaining listening comprehension among l2 learners of English: The contribution of general language proficiency, vocabulary knowledge and metacognitive awareness. System, 65, 139-150. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2016.12.013
Wang, X., & Gunaban, M. G. B. (2023). Effectiveness of mobile-assisted language learning in enhancing the English proficiency. Journal of Contemporary Educational Research, 7(11), 140-146. https://doi.org/10.26689/jcer.v7i11.5588
Wen, W. N. L., & Naim, R. M. (2023). Vocabulary Learning Strategies (VLS) in Second Language Acquisition (SLA): A review of literature. Journal of Language, Literacy and Translation 6(2), 223-241. https://doi.org/10.36777/ijollt2023.6.2.087
Wilczewski, M., & Alon, I. (2023) Language and communication in international students’ adaptation: A bibliometric and content analysis review. Higher Education, 85, 1235–1256. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10734-022-00888-8
Yee, S. C., & Hassan, Z. (2024). Internationalization of student mobility for higher education Malaysia: A systematic review. International Journal of Academic Research in Progressive Education and Development. 2292-2305. http://dx.doi.org/10.6007/IJARPED/v13-i4/23820
Youngsun, K., Hasjim, M., Lukman, L., & Kaharuddin, K. (2024). Exclamatory responses: Foreign students difficulties in learning Indonesian (a case study at JIKS Jakarta). International Journal of Religion, 5(9), 289-301. https://doi.org/10.61707/hgzp8067
Yu, B., & Wright, E. (2024). Paradoxes in intercultural communication, acculturation strategies and adaptation outcomes: International students in Hong Kong. Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development, 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1080/01434632.2024.2407909
Yuliantari, S. & Huda, T. (2023). Integration of culturally-responsive teaching in English learning. Pubmedia Jurnal Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris, 1(1), 1-8. https://doi.org/10.47134/jpbi.v1i1.17
Zhang, Y., & Mi, Y. (2010). Another look at the language difficulties of international students. Journal of Studies in International Education, 14(4), 371-388. https://doi.org/10.1177/1028315309336031
Zhou, J. (2023). The influence of second language learners' cultural differences on communication language output. Communications in Humanities Research, 3(1), 1136-1142. https://doi.org/10.54254/2753-7064/3/2022980
Downloads
Published
Issue
Section
License
Copyright (c) 2025 Hary Soedarto Harjono, Sri Wachyunni (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.
