Birds of a Feather: Cross-Group Interaction between Mainland and Local University Students in Hong Kong

Universities in Hong Kong have been admitting students from Mainland China since 1997. This project aims to examine the consequences of this phenomenon by studying the patterns of interaction between Mainland Chinese and local university students in Hong Kong. It also explores the social, cultural, and practical factors that shape their interactions. The project seeks to answer questions such as: under what circumstances are they more likely to interact? Does a better command of the Cantonese language increase interaction? What are the perceptions of each group towards the other? Do stereotypes lead to new forms of social exclusion?

The empirical findings of this study align with a previous research, which suggests that Mainland Chinese students studying in Hong Kong universities have limited interaction with local students. However, this study takes a micro-sociological perspective to further explain the lack of interaction. In-depth interviews with university students in Hong Kong support the argument that the absence of cross-group interactions is primarily due to a lack of opportunities for mutually engaging experiences over time. This lack of involvement in shared experiences can be attributed to three factors: fragmented daily living spaces, protected interpersonal spaces, and politicized online spaces.

To foster cross-group friendships, external factors need to be introduced to remove inhibitions. This can be achieved by placing students in circumstances where they are required to engage in various activities together. The study contributes to our understanding of cross-group interaction by highlighting the significance of daily routine activities and the sociopolitical context in influencing interactions among different types of students.