W-05 Internationalizing the Faculty in the US and in other Countries: Review of Recent Experiences

Abstract

With the current enthusiasm and energy for study abroad and campus internationalization, US universities are in a strong position to fulfill their goals as stated in various mission statements and formal addresses. Statements that promise leadership in diverse and dynamic global economies, internationalized curricula, participation in more global learning opportunities both on campus and abroad, and calls to investigate current issues in contemporary civilization and ideological differences that separate peoples of the world are often ideal, but in reality are used mainly for marketing purposes. While it is true that students benefit from cross-cultural and linguistic exchanges, they must also learn how to analyze the various underpinnings and ramifications of internationalization in an era of globalization. As our need to be multilateral, multilingual, multiperspectived and multicultural increases, so does our need to recognize the expertise of our faculty and our international colleagues and students, on campus and off. After all, the faculty provide the sustained educational environments in which students will begin to appreciate the complexity of global integration but also develop skills to navigate it successfully.