DIGITAL LEARNING PLATFORMS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW TO SUPPORT INTERNATIONALIZATION OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Cláudio Lima, Rogério Cid Bastos, Gregório Varvákis
Abstract
ABSTRACT: The process of integrating an international, intercultural, and global dimension into the purpose, functions or delivery of education defines the Internationalization of Higher Education (IoHE). Due to lack of resources for education, internationalization at home (IaH) has gained popularity. Internationalization of Higher Education involving Information and Communication Technology (ICT) opens opportunities for innovative learning approaches across nations and cultures. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the scientific publications of recent years on digital learning platforms related to IoHE. For this, a descriptive exploratory research was conducted based on an integrative literature review. Analysis of this field shows that e-learning platforms have boosted online and distance learning and diversified the IoHE landscape. Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) programs emerge as part of IaH and reflect the growing link between ICTs, social media, and internationalization. The concept of virtual internationalization can be used as a conceptual framework to promote IoHE.