Higher education in flight: a new direction for international assignments research

Abstract

This paper draws attention to the significant internationalisation of the higher education sector and role of international assignments in supporting and driving this. The paper then proceeds to identify the similarities and unique features of the sector in the context of international assignments which we argue, primarily revolve around alternative forms, namely international frequent flyers and short-term assignments. Finally, a model is proposed that may facilitate higher education institutes in more effective international assignment utilisation.

Keywords:

• expatriation
• globalisation
• higher education
• international assignments
• international management

Notes

1. Caution is required in interpreting these figures due to inconsistencies in how this data are collected. There are no equivalent figures for US universities.