International internships and skill development: A systematic review

Abstract

AbstractAn increasing number of students complete an internship during their higher education studies in a country different from that of their home institution. A main advantage of this type of mobility is that it responds to employers' need for graduates with both hands‐on experience and global skills. In this paper, we attempt to review existing research on the types of skills higher education students gain through their participation in international internships. While there are several systematic reviews on study abroad programmes, this is, to the best of our knowledge, the first focusing on internship programmes abroad. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) approaches were used to explore four electronic databases (Scopus, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and Resources Information Center). From these, 31 relevant studies were identified, and data were examined using a combination of thematic and content analysis. Intrapersonal skills (e.g., open mindedness, self‐confidence) are found to be the most frequently cited skills learned by participants. Many of the reviewed studies also report learning gains in terms of practical knowledge and language proficiency. On the other hand, there is less evidence suggesting that international internships enhance cognitive skills and leadership skills. The large majority of the reviewed studies, however, have methodological problems. A future research agenda is outlined, along with suggestions for improving the research methodology. Context and implicationsRationale for this studyDespite the growing popularity of international internships, there is no systematic review that sums up the evidence on the learning gains from this specific type of mobility experience.Why the new findings matterThe findings highlight the large breadth of skills higher education students can acquire during international internships. They also outline the important role that this type of mobility experience may play in supporting the development of intrapersonal skills.Implications for educators and researchersThis article explores international internship programmes' potential in terms of enhancing participants' skills. The results of such an exercise may provide educators with insights about how to develop these programmes so that they can best support students in their learning. Additionally, this review provides researchers with suggestions on sound methodologies to be used to evaluate the effect of international internships. Several potential directions for future research are also identified.