International perspectives are reflected in the HEI’s approach to teaching

Access to new ideas for teaching and learning in the international environment can increase an HEI’s ability to compete in international markets. HEIs ideally have a teaching and learning environment that is tailored to a global audience. This could include: classroom-based activities with e-learning; study abroad programs; international exchanges and internships; international entrepreneurship summer schools; joint and dual programmes; and international entrepreneurs as guest lecturers.

Entrepreneurial HEIs should invest in an internationally orientated curriculum, aimed at preparing students for performing professionally and socially in an international and multicultural context. This is not only about curriculum content, but also about the way in which the content is taught, learned and assessed and how students are supported within their programmes. Such an internationalised curriculum embraces both ‘internationalisation abroad’ and ‘internationalisation at home’ by providing opportunities for staff and students to experience education and work placements in other countries whilst, at the same time, bringing new cultural experiences to the home campus through sharing international teaching, learning and research experience in multicultural classrooms.

Enablers of the internationalised curriculum are:

·         Diversity in ethnic and cultural backgrounds of international and home students and staff;

·         Opportunities to learn languages;

·         International accreditation of programmes;

·         International learning materials and resources;

·         International collaborations and partnerships; and

·         Local links with businesses, industries, the voluntary sector, the public sector, etc.

HEIs should also channel efforts towards internationalising the curriculum for students who are reluctant to move abroad. This can be accomplished through working online with students and staff from partner institutions in multiple geographic areas. ICT can offer new educational opportunities at a lower cost and with more flexibility, irrespective of their physical location (e.g. online student collaboration, virtual mobility, virtual field trips and virtual learning environments, e-pedagogy, distance learning, etc.). HEIs should raise awareness of how ICT can enhance the learning experience of students by introducing them to cross-board educational opportunities such as MOOCs (Massive Online Open Courses).

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  • Guidance notes
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