Framing Issues of International Education

Overview & Synopsis

"It can be said, and has been said by many, that the internationalization of education is inevitable, as the advancement of knowledge and understanding is a global enterprise that has no borders." Various motivations drive international ventures, such as expanding access to higher education, generating profits, increasing visibility and competitiveness in the international higher education arena. Efforts to internationalize higher education can include international activity through national and institutional entities, partnerships, and joint initiatives. Key to understanding international educational partnerships is knowledge of how these partnerships are established. This chapter attempts to answer the following questions: Who is involved? Who are the stakeholders? Who should be at the table for discussion and implementation? What are the various forms of partnerships? What are some of the challenges and successes? What are the consequences, implications, and outcomes? Lastly, how do educators ensure sustainability, and why is sustainability important? Thinking about the answers to these questions in the planning phase can lead to effective and successful collaborative experiences.