Employers Perspectives about Hiring Students from International Pathways

This study explored Canadian employers' perspectives around the hiring of students who come from international pathways (SFIP) using Q Methodology. The research question was: "What are employer perceptions and practices regarding the hiring of students who come to Canadian (B.C.) post-secondary institutions via international educational pathways?" Four distinct worldviews emerged regarding employers' perspectives around the hiring SFIP: (1) candidates' qualifications are key and diversity is a real asset; (2) international pathway students are difficult and just not a good workplace fit; (3) candidates are hired based on who is deemed most likely to succeed in our organization; and (4) while philosophically committed to diversity, our hiring commitment remains with Canadians. All employers noted that English language and cultural competencies were critical requirements influencing their hiring decisions. This raises important implications for practitioners and institutions where SFIPs study and suggests that additional English language and intercultural supports are needed. [Note: The page range (323-344) shown on the PDF is incorrect. The correct page range for this article is p332-344.]