Diversifying internationalisation of research strategies in universities: tackling global challenges of the polar regions (Antarctic and Arctic)

Abstract

ABSTRACT The internationalisation of research strategies is continuously evolving. Addressing global challenges is part of the mechanism that enhances the internationalisation of universities. With global interest in the polar regions (Antarctic and Arctic) increasing significantly, and with an extensive history of international collaboration in research, it is timely to explore how the efforts in polar research can contribute to a strong foundation for the internationalisation of university research. A conceptual analysis clearly indicates that an international collaboration of polar research has the potential of contributing to the debates on the future direction and strategy of internationalising universities by bringing in the values of mobility, co-authorship, global citizenship and knowledge diplomacy. This hypothesis needs to be further tested in an empirical study to support evidence-based policy making. This study sheds light on the theories and lends a new body of fundamental social knowledge related to the internationalisation of research strategies in university through global research initiatives.