Armenian Students and Faculty Perceptions of Education in the United States

Abstract

This study explores the assumptions held by Armenian students and faculty concerning their perceptions of the United States and its education system. A single-stage cluster survey was distributed to students and faculty from two universities located in Yerevan, Armenia. Eighty-four students and nine faculty participated in the study, all studying English as a subject major. The most important results of the study revealed students and faculty overwhelmingly (92.71%) expressed a desire to study/work in the United States. The most noted barriers that influenced the decision to study abroad included financial concerns, family, culture, language, and visa issues. The perceived benefits of studying/working in the United States included increased opportunities, financial gain, education, and language acquisition. The need to assist Armenian citizens in their desire for more opportunities may be found in supporting opportunities to study and work abroad in the United States.