Indicators of Internationalization in Higher Education Institutions: A Systematic Review Publisher



Azadi T¹ ; Azadi T¹ ; Sayyadi A¹ ; Ayati MH^{3, 4} ; Nekoofar MH^{5, 6} Show Affiliations
Source: Strides in Development of Medical Education Journal Published:2025

Abstract

Background: Despite the numerous advantages of internationalization, universities and higher education institutions (HEIs) often encounter challenges when implementing internationalization activities. Part of the problem concerns the vague definition of internationalization and its performance indicators. Objectives: The present research aims to identify indicators for internationalization in universities and (HEIs) by conducting a comprehensive literature review to help universities better understand and implement internationalization activities and processes. Methods: This study is a systematic literature review, informed by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, in which six bibliographic databases, including Web of Science, Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC), ScienceDirect, and Wiley Online Library for English literature and Scientific Information Database (SID) and MagIran for the Persian literature were searched in 2023. Approved articles underwent synthesis, and findings were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: A total of 2086 articles were identified, out of which 37 were selected for content analysis. The content analysis and final synthesis revealed six overarching themes consisting of 12 subthemes, 38 groups, 11 subgroups, and 466 codes. The main themes included education (with three subthemes of internationalization at a distance, quality assurance and continuous improvement of internationalization, and internationalization of education, teaching, and learning outcomes), international aspects (with two subthemes of international public relations and communication, and international cooperation and networking), research (with two subthemes of internationalization of research, and commercialization of ideas and innovations), students (with two subthemes of student welfare/support services, and cultural/social services), management and human resources (with two subthemes of management, and human resources), and healthcare (with one subtheme of healthcare and treatment). Conclusion: The results necessitate consideration of several indicators, rendering internationalization a multifaceted challenge that requires inter-sectoral cooperation at both internal and external university levels. The results hold significance for international relations managers and education policymakers in facilitating the planning and implementation of internationalization activities. © 2025, Strides in Development of Medical Education is Published by Kerman University of Medical Science.