The international mobility of faculty

Abstract

This chapter analyzes the international mobility of academics applying the sociological life course approach to the CAP survey’s data. A typology of academic mobility is developed, and the possible factors explaining the various types of mobility are investigated. The impact of different types of mobility patterns on academics’ international activities is also analyzed. Results of the data analysis show that international academic mobility is a relevant and highly differentiated phenomenon, shaped by a complex set of factors and differentially affecting the internationalization of academic activities. Few factors influence all types of mobility, and there are meaningful similarities and differences in the factors explaining mobility occurring early or late in academics’ lives as well as in those explaining international circulation or migration. Scholars’ international mobility is positively associated with international teaching, research collaboration, and dissemination. However, different types of mobility and experience abroad have different impacts on international academic activities.