Concepts, policies and actions of internationalization of higher education: Reflections on the expertise of a North American university

Abstract

This paper aims to explore-from a decolonial point of view-concepts, policies and actions of internationalization of Higher Education at the University of Georgia based on a qualitative approach with individual semi-structured interviews, observations and documental analysis addressing two research questions about: the conceptions of internationalization of Higher Education; and how internationalization policies and actions are perceived within University of Georgia. From the analysis, three substantive categories have been identified: Subject, Place and Research. Those express concepts supporting policies and actions of internationalization. Subjects can be seen as the starting point and driving force of processes of internationalization. Places are spaces inherently filled with both contradictions and possibilities, bringing together participants who count on support and means to build bridges for understanding, by acting out interdisciplinary joint efforts of research to address complex issues affecting mankind as a whole.