The term
international education can mean many different
things and its definition is debated. Some have
defined two general meanings to the concept of
international education in regard to students. The
first refers to education that transcends national
borders through the exchange of people, as in study
abroad. The second, explored in depth here, is a
comprehensive approach to education that
intentionally prepares students to be active and
engaged participants in an interconnected world.
Understanding of a broad array of phenomena is
enhanced and deepened through examination of the
cultures, languages, environmental situations,
governments, political relations, religions,
geography, and history of the world. While
definitions vary in the precise language used,
international education is generally taken to
include:
1.Knowledge of other world regions & cultures;
2.Familiarity with international and global issues;
3.Skills in working effectively in global or
cross-cultural environments, and using information
from different sources around the world;
4.Ability to communicate in multiple languages; and
5.Dispositions towards respect and concern for other
cultures and peoples.
International Education is also a major part of
international development. Professionals and
students wishing to be a part of international
education development are able to learn through
organizations and university and college programs.
Organizations around the world use education as a
means to development. The United Nations Millennium
Development Goals include to education specific
goals: |
