Abstract
This study aims to critically analyse the approaches to internationalisation undertaken by universities within Wales since devolution, and how they engage with it through their strategic planning. It also examines how internationalisation is interpreted and implemented by key stakeholders within Welsh higher education.Using a constructivist-interpretivist paradigm, the strategic approaches undertaken to internationalisation are explored via a qualitative case study of Welsh universities. This incorporated documentary analysis of current strategic plans with semi-structured interviews of senior university staff across the sector. This was triangulated with documentary analysis of the Welsh Government's higher education policy and interviews with key stakeholders.
Applying the ideal type constructs of Stier (2004) for the first time, the study makes a significant and practical contribution through its analysis, identifying a critical gap in the framework’s applicability to modern devolved nations. Findings from the study firstly recommend an extension to the framework through the inclusion of ‘ethical regionalism’, integrating regional identity, sustainable development, and ethical responsibility in internationalisation. Additional findings offer key new insights into internationalisation pertinent to small, devolved nations and practical guidance to universities and policy makers seeking to align national and institutional priorities.
| Date of Award | 25 Jun 2025 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Mary Hayden (Supervisor) & Jeff Thompson (Supervisor) |
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