Preparing global managers and consultants: A justification and framework for international exchange programs in higher education

Abstract

International trade continues to grow and, likewise, organizations conduct business in an increasingly globally interconnected environment. Business leaders view academia as responsible for training competent global leaders who can thrive in this environment. In this chapter, we discuss the justification for, and important nuances of, establishing effective international exchange programs in higher education. There is extensive evidence for the educational benefit of a more diverse student population. In short, more diverse classrooms and campuses result in more innovative group decision making, a higher degree of critical analysis by way of multiple diverse viewpoints, as well as greater cognitive development, satisfaction, and improved leadership abilities. Many institutions of higher education have, at least to some degree, adapted to the requirements of the global business arena and have internationalized, or are beginning to internationalize, their curriculum to develop competencies related to Intercultural Competence. Therefore, in this chapter, we provide a framework for establishing and managing an international exchange program. We have drawn recommendations from a wide variety of resources, such as national organizations on higher education, scholarly literature, exemplar institutions, case examples, and our own experience, to provide a framework for developing and sustaining an international exchange program and these recommendations are grouped into the following categories—(1) institutional commitment, (2) study abroad infrastructure, (3) adequate resources, (4) clarity and accountability, (5) student preparation, and finally, (6) student repatriation.