The internationalization of research has increasingly become an area of focus for higher education institutions but has received less scholarly attention in the study of internationalization in higher education. Drawing on the literature, this article outlines a range of key considerations and concerns for the continued internationalization of research, first by documenting the various rationales for—and factors affecting—international research collaboration and then by examining how internationalization in research might be measured. The article documents a number of key challenges, and highlights that the internationalization of research is influenced by the complex intersection of factors relating to the individual faculty member, to their discipline, to their institution, and to a range of external factors, such as funding. The authors conclude by questioning the likely success of national and institutional strategies for greater internationalization of research, and by calling for more detailed empirical research in this area.
Internationalization is increasingly seen as comprehensive, with international strategies now touching on all aspects of a higher education institution’s activity. In this light, it is assumed that faculty play a key role in the internationalization of their institution. Yet, little is known about the extent to which faculty consider international activities or international engagement an important aspect of their work, and whether internationalization has changed understandings of what it means to be an academic in higher education today.
Ensuring environmental sustainability has gained global attention in recent years due to the effects of climate change and growing concerns about environmental degradation. A wide range of stakeholders have contributed to the urgent call for action, with recent analyses indicating both progress and alarming shortcomings in implementing needed changes. The field of international education has also begun focusing on environmental sustainability, with research exploring the intersections between internationalization and environmental impact. This special issue of the Journal of Studies in International Education presents timely perspectives on this complex topic, highlighting research on carbon footprints, air travel, sustainability rankings, and the role of professional associations. The issue also addresses the need for individual and collective action, and the importance of social justice and equity in achieving environmental sustainability. While the coverage is extensive, there is a notable absence of voices from certain regions and a lack of focus on student perspectives.
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