engaging local and international students in the curriculum - finding common ground

One of the most valuable presentations at last week’s Asia-Pacific Association for International Education 2010 Conference was delivered by Dr Sophie Arkoudis of the University of Melbourne, representing a project team drawn from three tertiary institutions.

Sophie reported on a research project funded by the Australian Learning and Teaching Council (ALTC) which addressed the notion that international students bring with them attributes that do not fit easily into the western style of higher education in Australia whist at the same time, institutions are placing greater emphasis on internationalisation. In terms of student experience, the focus is on the concept of global citizens and preparing students for working in the global community.

Very little research has been done into how the large numbers of international students can be utilized as a resource to achieve the goals on internationalisation and the development of global citizens prepared for working in the global community. Thus the project investigated local and international student interaction within teaching and learning contexts. Interviews were conducted with academic staff and local and international students to ascertain their perspectives regarding teaching and learning strategies that can enhance interaction between diverse student groups and how these can be judged to be effective in terms of achieving student learning objectives.

The outcomes of the project have direct application to curriculum design, teaching and learning and assessment and monitoring in our institutions and the outcomes consist of four components:

• a Framework which underpins curriculum design and which can be used as a basis for staff performance reviews;
• a DVD which offers examples that typify practices at different levels of the Framework;
• a Guide for Academics and Teachers; and
• a background paper describing the project and processes

These materials would be a significant and practical asset for curriculum design and implementation in any institutions with international students where there is a concern for good teaching and learning and promoting student interaction and collegial and harmonious work. They will be available from the Centre for the Study of Higher Education, University of Melbourne.
 

Former PM Bob Hawke AC opening the APAIE Conference