INTERNATIONALIZATION OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND ITS IMPACT ON THE FORMATION OF STUDENTS’ LINGUOCULTURAL COMPETENCE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48371/PEDS.2025.79.4.021%20Keywords:
internationalization, higher education, internationalization at home, linguocultural competence, foreign language teaching, virtual exchange, intercultural communication, collaborationAbstract
Abstract. This article examines the implementation of internationalization at home as a strategic component of the internationalization of higher education, with particular emphasis on its efficacy in fostering students' linguocultural competence and the challenges encountered in the learning process.
The mixed method was used to collect and analyze data. The study involved a total of 60 participants: 30 students from Korkyt Ata Kyzylorda University and 30 students from Naberezhnye Chelny State Pedagogical University. The qualitative and quantitative research design provided a deeper understanding of students’ perceptions of the internationalization at home program.
The outcomes indicate that virtual exchanges are an accessible and inclusive alternative to international interaction, especially for students who have limited opportunities to study abroad. This study provides evidence supporting the internationalization at home program based on virtual exchange improves students' linguocultural competence. Despite these positive outcomes, several challenges such as language barriers and technical issues were identified. The data suggest that institutions seeking to internationalize education and enhance linguocultural competence of students should prioritize internationalization at home strategies alongside traditional mobility programs.
