Abstract:

This research aims to study the role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) as learning organizations and their effects on innovation and internationalization strategies, with evidence from Portuguese HEIs.
Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are dynamic entities that play a critical role in knowledge creation, dissemination, and societal development. This article explores the concept of HEIs as learning organizations and investigates its impact on innovation strategies and internationalization. A learning organization culture within HEIs encompasses the characteristics of continuous learning, knowledge creation, collaboration, and adaptability. This culture supports the development and implementation of innovative practices and fosters an environment conducive to internationalization efforts. By examining the existing literature, this article elucidates the theoretical foundations and benefits of HEIs as learning organizations. It also explores the linkages between a learning organization culture and the ability of HEIs to effectively innovate and engage in internationalization activities. The insights gained from this article provide valuable guidance to HEI leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders in fostering a learning organization environment that stimulates innovation and supports internationalization in higher education.
The survival of HEIs depends on how these institutions accept change, improve their practices and react to competitiveness. Nowadays, the most relevant aspects of education in higher education are translated by learning, dynamic structures, flexibility, quality, and innovation. Consequently, the higher education system will have to adapt to the continuous changes and new requirements, to achieve success and the proposed objectives. Regarding the methodology used, the data were obtained through a questionnaire elaborated by the authors, and a structural equation model (SEM) was used to investigate the possible relationships between the different dimensions incorporated in the model. Concerning the results, this research concludes that HEIs as learning organizations have a positive influence on innovation strategies, namely, products and services innovation, and process innovation, as well as with internationalization strategies. This research is of enormous importance for the study of HEIs, considering their role in the development of any country and its impact on society as creators of knowledge and science.

Keywords:

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), Learning Organizations, Internationalization, Innovation Strategies, Product Innovation, Process Innovation.