Factors Affecting The Responsiveness Of Lebanese Private Universities To Internationalisation

Since 1990, internationalisation has expanded in the higher education (HE) sector, although there are different approaches to internationalising the education system. The literature has established a wide range of benefits and risks associated with internationalisation, and in Lebanon, internationalisation is still a relatively new development in HE. This research explores internationalisation within higher education institutions (HEIs) in Lebanon and aims to identify the factors that affect the response of Lebanese private universities to internationalisation. Two methods of data collection were employed: semi-structured interviews with key personnel involved in the internationalisation process in three private universities and documentary analysis. Data collected were analysed and interpreted using thematic and content analysis, while institutional theory and diffusion of innovation theory were employed as frameworks for the analysis. First, the study offers empirical evidence of the explanatory power of the two theories employed for the analysis of the findings. Second, the results identified various institutional and organisational factors that influence internationalisation processes, as well as the influence of stakeholders’ perceptions.

Normative and mimetic forces were identified as factors that affect responsiveness in Lebanese HEIs. Leadership characteristics that favour the implementation of internationalisation processes were identified, in addition to reasons for resisting change. The research offers pertinent and timely information surrounding internationalisation practices of Lebanese HEIs. While COVID-19 hit the world hard, the internationalisation of HE was significantly affected too. Airports were closed down, countries and all education sectors where affected. The findings of this study can help illustrate best practices when implementing internationalisation processes and help raise awareness of the importance of internationalisation among many lawmakers in different branches of government and the education sector, in addition to assisting students and their parents in their choice of university.