This week’s reading explained the definition of cross-border education and internationalization at home. Cross-border education referenced to the movement of people, programs and research development across borders and how this process aids internationalization through the use of online course work and hybrids-internationally (p.38). The reading explained that cross border education can foster partnerships in the internationalization process and create educational hubs where a “planned effort” and strategic internationalization initiative of engagement in internationalization can be found (p.38). This section also engaged the reader by explaining how cross-border education is meant to encourage the implementation of study abroad programs and regulate its activities. What I found most interesting in this section was United States hopes of starting cross-border education in the Middle East. We can dispute that this won’t be a great idea, however, I have faith that the majority of the Middle Eastern population and those part of the higher education system wish to have peace in their country.

In Jordan, this is the case. Jordan’s universities are in need of joint programs with overseas countries. Personally, I believe the implementation of programs and partnership (with the U.S) may not have an effect on radicalistic activities. Currently, there are 14 European countries who participate in providing partnerships and cross border education in Jordan. Jordan, however, is reluctant to give accreditation for other systems to operate in their country which can be caused by religious tensions and hopes to not increase terror. I believe there are ways that partnership can be created with U.S and Middle Eastern estates. This can be done by assessing policy effectiveness and ensuring the possible outcomes of establishing partnerships with Middle Eastern countries. First U.S must establish what their goals are and make sure those also align with their partners. In addition, the courses and curriculum offered must also align. What I do argue is that there is no motivation in the U.S- politically to make the above happen. This is caused by several differences that have stopped and/or discontinued and challenged their interest.

Lastly, the reading explained that the purpose of internationalization at home is to integrate culture in their curriculum at home. In the reading the policies examples explained that the implementation of linguistics and foreign languages in the U.S were part of internationalization. Even though this is part of internationalization in education (K-12 and higher education) we can argue that it is more so for students to become “global citizens” in their own country rather than expanding their horizons in other countries. The purpose of internationalization at home in the U.S (in my opinion) is for students to understand the U.S diversity and be marketable in the U.S workforce.

Jordan: http://www.mei.edu/content/internationalization-higher-education-jordan
Middle East and U.S challenges: http://www.heritage.org/research/reports/2012/08/going-the-extra-mile-for-a-strategic-us-india-relationship