STEM Education and Internationalisation: What do higher education institutions in Laos do to respond to the current global?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32674/h03cyn34Keywords:
STEM education, internationalization, motivations, benefits, challenges, academics, university leadersAbstract
In an era where STEM education and research are increasingly critical for national growth and economic competitiveness, higher education institutions must equip graduates with both technical skills and global competencies. This qualitative study analyzed policy documents and perspectives of 29 leaders and academics of four public universities in Laos regarding motivations, benefits, and challenges of internationalizing STEM education. It was found that universities in Laos implemented an “open door” policy to internationalize STEM education through four main forms – student and academic mobility, research collaboration, internationalization at home and strategic partnerships. Such internationalization practices created various benefits for students, academics and institutions. These findings provide valuable implications for institutional strategies, helping them better respond to emerging trends in STEM education.
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