Faculty Members' Experiences in Internationalization of the Curriculum in Higher Education Institutions: A Case Study of the Zambian Open University

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore faculty members’ experiences in internationalisation of the curriculum in higher education institutions at Zambia Open University (ZAOU). The study took a mixed method approach. The paradigm adopted for this study was pragmatism which embraces a mixed method approach. The study found that faculty members at ZAOU acknowledge and appreciate the presence of Internationalisation of the Curriculum (IoC) at the university. Faculty members' experiences in IoC has contributed positively to the development of IoC in the University by developing internationalized programs. Faculty members have contributed to the development of the IoC approaches at ZAOU by developing different approaches to teaching international students. The lecturers included inclusive curricular material and future-oriented viewpoints in their instruction. Still, they lack the skills, resources, and equipment necessary to modify their pedagogical approaches to a global, culturally diverse teaching and learning environment. The formation of a new program design culture supported by the institution with a focus on international and intercultural learning outcomes and assessment processes is thus required by IoC in Zambia. Based on the study findings, the University Administrators should create a strong relationship with foreign universities and provide capacity building workshops for faculty members to internationalise the curriculum effectively. University Administrators should adequately fund internationalisation programs and activities. Researchers should adequately document the experiences of faculty members because faculty members are the key to the full implementation of IoC.