A Critical Review of Theoretical Models on Institutional Internationalization of Higher Education
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| Title: | A Critical Review of Theoretical Models on Institutional Internationalization of Higher Education |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Yiwei Qiu, Ella Ruth Anaya, Sergio Cepero Espinosa |
| Source: | International Education Studies. 2025 18(2):150-165. |
| Availability: | Canadian Center of Science and Education. 1595 Sixteenth Ave Suite 301, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3N9 Canada. Tel: 416-642-2606 Ext 206; Fax: 416-642-2608; e-mail: ies@ccsenet.org; Web site: http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 16 |
| Publication Date: | 2025 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | Higher Education, International Education, Models, Literature Reviews, Global Approach, Educational Policy, School Policy, Educational Strategies |
| ISSN: | 1913-9020 1913-9039 |
| Abstract: | This paper presents a critical review of theoretical models on institutional internationalization in higher education. Over the past three decades, scholars have proposed numerous frameworks to understand internationalization processes, yet gaps persist in their practical application and integration. Through a systematic and evaluative examination of the literature, this study identifies two main categories of models: "content-based models," which focus on institutional strategies and policies, and "process-oriented models," which emphasize internationalization as a dynamic, cyclical progression. The critical review highlights the strengths, limitations, and developmental trends of major existing frameworks, underscoring the need for a more integrated and actionable approach. To address these gaps, we propose "Qiu's blended evidence-based theoretical model," which combines Van Dijk and Meijer's internationalization cube with Rogers' diffusion of innovation theory. This integrative framework provides a structured yet adaptable pathway for institutions, aligned policy, support systems, and implementation strategies to facilitate purposeful and measurable internationalization efforts. By bridging theoretical insights with practical applications, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of internationalization as a process offering valuable guidance for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2025 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1464863 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | This paper presents a critical review of theoretical models on institutional internationalization in higher education. Over the past three decades, scholars have proposed numerous frameworks to understand internationalization processes, yet gaps persist in their practical application and integration. Through a systematic and evaluative examination of the literature, this study identifies two main categories of models: "content-based models," which focus on institutional strategies and policies, and "process-oriented models," which emphasize internationalization as a dynamic, cyclical progression. The critical review highlights the strengths, limitations, and developmental trends of major existing frameworks, underscoring the need for a more integrated and actionable approach. To address these gaps, we propose "Qiu's blended evidence-based theoretical model," which combines Van Dijk and Meijer's internationalization cube with Rogers' diffusion of innovation theory. This integrative framework provides a structured yet adaptable pathway for institutions, aligned policy, support systems, and implementation strategies to facilitate purposeful and measurable internationalization efforts. By bridging theoretical insights with practical applications, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of internationalization as a process offering valuable guidance for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. |
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| ISSN: | 1913-9020 1913-9039 |
