Abstract:

The world has changed. First, there was a worldwide pandemic, then social unrest around the globe, and now a war in Ukraine. What's next? How has international education and student mobility been affected over the last few years? How do we continue to offer students international opportunities in a world that is becoming more and more unpredictable?

Welcome to the world of transnational higher education. Transnational higher education refers to study programs delivered in a country other than the country in which the awarding institution is based. Therefore, when students are not able to travel due to various challenges, education comes to them. Higher education institutions can collaborate and offer their educational programs and provide both in person and virtual opportunities/exchanges to international students and faculty in their home countries.

In this paper, the authors will focus on three different ways to engage international students and faculty by bringing them opportunities from abroad. The first will highlight a transnational program between a United States (U.S.) based college and an international university in South America. The second will showcase an innovative way to bring English language learning and student success skills to students at a university in war-torn Ukraine. The third will feature the power of international virtual exchanges between U.S. based faculty and students with faculty and students around the world.

The authors will delve into the complexity of these innovative programs and discuss the best ways to navigate the challenges while celebrating the benefits. They will also highlight best practices and tips for success.

Keywords:

Transnational higher education models, international education, innovative practices, virtual exchanges, international collaboration.