Competitive advantages of the implementation of the academic virtual mobility projects

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of the research is to show the competitive advantages of virtual academic mobility projects and to solve the problem of the availability of academic mobility for rising of the students' competence. Methodology of research. To achieve this goal, the following methods were used in this study: theoretical synthesis, analysis and comparison – in the process of determination of the features and substantiation of the basic concepts; qualitative analysis – for find out the competitive advantages of virtual academic mobility projects in this study. Findings. It has been found that the restriction on access to higher education and lack of potential for satisfying personal and professional goals, are driving the rise of the number of students from all over the world who choose to study abroad. Thus, it’s very important to supplement traditional student’s mobility with innovation in programs and teaching methods, including virtual mobility. The authors analyse the European Union and specifically Erasmus activity that has become a regional leader in supporting the academic mobility of students. The competitive advantages of virtual academic mobility projects were showed. The example of realization the project Erasmus+ MILETUS was given. Originality. Further substantiation of the feasibility of expanding the teaching practice through the implementation of virtual mobility projects has been further developing, which, as MILETUS experience shows, will facilitate the internationalization of the educational process and prepare students for effective participation in international educational research projects where students gain experience in international, inter-institutional studies teams, together with colleagues from other countries. Practical value. Proposals, which were formulated on the base on the results of the study, can be used by educational institutions to improve international cooperation and enhance student mobility. Key words: virtual mobility; projects; benefits; collaboration; learning.