About International Education

Our modern world is complex, diverse and interconnected. Recent developments include the globalization of economies, rapid technological advances, and far-reaching environmental and health issues. Canada’s well-being and prosperity depend on our ability to build bridges of understanding and cooperation with other cultures and nations. An educational system that provides students with the knowledge, skills and abilities to work and live in a complex world is essential to our future.

International education brings important benefits that can help lead to a successful and secure future for our province and our country.

In terms of educational benefits, international education:

• Develops internationally and interculturally knowledgeable graduates;
• Creates additional opportunities for research and learning;
• Develops a worldwide network of academics and graduates;
• Enhances the quality and innovation of education and research;
• Forms friendships that foster goodwill and understanding with people around the world.

In addition, international education provides a number of economic benefits:

• A significant, positive economic impact. In 2001, the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade estimated that international students in Canada contributed approximately $8 billion to the economy;
• A positive effect on Gross Domestic Product, innovation, international trade and Foreign Direct Investment;
• Well-paying jobs in an environmentally friendly industry;
• Diversification of the economy.

Internationalization Defined

Internationalization is "the process of integrating an international, intercultural or global dimension into the purpose, function or delivery of ...education" (Knight, 2003, p. 2).

Key internationalization activities include (McKellin, 1996, Knight, 2000):

• International student programs - a range of educational opportunities and support services for international students.
• Internationalizing teaching and learning - dealing with the international aspects of academic subjects, professional, technical and vocational training or introducing an international dimension across the curriculum and within the classroom.
• Faculty/teacher/staff professional development - providing support and incentives for faculty/teachers to teach overseas, participate in international research opportunities and education projects and to internationalize their teaching.
• International education projects and contracts - participating in international development projects as well as consulting on education and training contracts.
• Institutional linkages - establishing agreements with institutions/schools abroad to promote the exchange of faculty/teachers, students and research.
• Partnerships - cooperating with organizations and businesses, abroad and at home, to create international opportunities for students and faculty.
• Offshore education - establishing branch campuses and authorizing partners to deliver local programs abroad.

Manitoba's Involvement

Manitoba's education system is developing a comprehensive and strategic approach to international education. Schools and institutions are engaged in international student programs, internationalizing the curriculum, study and work abroad programs, and international education contracts and development projects. These activities help prepare students to live and work in an international and multicultural society, strengthen international connections and partnerships, and create economic and employment opportunities for Manitobans.