Is the Internationalization of Higher Education at Risk? Covid-19 Pandemic and Online Learning of International Students

Abstract

Any university that wishes to be recognized in terms of the internationalization of higher education needs to take the Covid-19 pandemic as an opportunity for development as we live in a world of uncertainties. This study focused on examining the challenges faced by international students studying online because they cannot travel to their host countries to study due to the Covid-19 pandemic to propose some recommendations to improve the learning experiences of international students in case of emergencies such as the Covid-19 pandemic. An exploratory case study research design was used, adopting the qualitative methodology. The study’s sample population consisted of 48 international students in two universities in China. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview guide. The data collected was analyzed thematically. The study found that most international students studying online face the following major challenges; poor internet connection, limited class participation, and inability to finish research projects on time. As far as the internationalization of higher education is concerned, students may not fully acquire the international experience that comes with higher education internationalization if they continue to study online. Moreover, the study found that the following strategies can be implemented to enhance online teaching and learning during a pandemic, such as Covid-19; Good internet connections, communication with students, training lecturers on how to carry out online teaching, and monitoring students studying online.