Internationalizing Higher Education with National Characteristics: Similar Global Trends but Different Responses

Internationalization of higher education (IHE) is a common pursuit of many nations, with China and Australia being two examples. This book compares the international HE policies in the two nations, identifying similarities and differences in overarching meta-policies, institution-focused policies, and people-focused policies. Similarities include promoting and deepening IHE, transnational cooperation, and increasing international student numbers. Differences include China's soft power initiatives and Australia's appeal for the sustainability of international HE, the focus on "World Class Universities" construction in China and strengthening the overall HE system in Australia, and different issues in relation to people mobility and brain circulation. Different responses to global trends reflect the specificities of each nation and the ways path-dependent factors mediate global pressures.

Format: Hardback
Length: 151 pages
Publication date: 27 August 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

In the era of globalization, the internationalization of higher education (IHE) has emerged as a prevalent trend, pursued by numerous nations in their higher education (HE) policies. This book specifically focuses on two nations, China and Australia, to explore the intricate interplay between global and national pressures in policy development. The overarching objective of this book is to investigate the dynamic relationships between global and national forces in shaping international HE policies. To achieve this, the book categorizes policies into three levels: overarching meta-policies at the macrolevel (nation), institution-focused policies at the mesolevel (universities), and people-focused policies at the microlevel (individuals). Thorough documentation and analysis of these policies are conducted, highlighting both similarities and differences between the two nations.

Similarities between China and Australia in their international HE policies include the promotion and deepening of IHE as a significant agenda at the macrolevel. Both nations prioritize transnational cooperation in the provision of HE, fostering international student numbers and encouraging the exchange of learning and exchanges. Additionally, both countries aim to attract more international students and promote the outflow of student talent.

However, there are also notable differences between the two nations. China emphasizes its soft power initiatives and seeks to establish itself as a global education hub. In contrast, Australia prioritizes the sustainability of international HE as a national priority, recognizing its role in fostering global talent and knowledge exchange.

At the macrolevel, China focuses on constructing "World Class Universities" and strengthening the overall HE system. This includes initiatives to attract international students, promote research collaboration, and enhance the quality of education. In Australia, the focus is more on maintaining a high-quality HE system and ensuring its long-term viability.

Different issues arise regarding people mobility and brain circulation. In China, there is a push for more outflow of students, both domestically and internationally, to gain exposure and experience. On the other hand, Australia relies heavily on international students financially, which has led to concerns about the sustainability of the sector.

It is important to note that the responses to global trends in IHE reflect the unique characteristics of each nation and their approaches to policy development. Different nations may adopt different strategies to navigate the complex dynamics of internationalization, reflecting their national priorities, cultural contexts, and economic development.

In conclusion, the internationalization of higher education has become a global phenomenon, with China and Australia serving as prominent examples. This book explores the interactive relationships between global and national pressures in policy development, highlighting similarities and differences between the two nations. By examining the macrolevel, mesolevel, and microlevel policies, the book provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of international HE and its implications for higher education systems worldwide.

Weight: 424g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811940811
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022