More than student recruitment: developing international strategies

Internationalisation needn’t be limited to student attraction and its gains are not just financial. Photograph: mediacolor's/Alamy

Internationalisation in higher education is nothing new. For decades - before there were economic gains to be made from international student recruitment and possibly even before the term was coined - the brightest and wealthiest students from developing countries have gone to study abroad. The institutions selected have been as much a reflection of the political ties between countries, as they've been an indication of a student's personal ambitions.

But since the development of the higher education market, the rising costs of a university education and the diminishing support of governments through the public purse, universities - old and new - are actively pursuing internationalisation strategies. The other big change of course, is that the new key players in higher education (India, China and Brazil) reflect wider geopolitical shifts.

Still, to see internationalisation as simply synonymous with international student recruitment is both a limited approach and one loaded with concerns over neo-colonialism and imperialism. The sector now speaks more of international partnerships – from research collaborations and consultancy to academic and student exchanges.

Engaging globally has becomes both more popular and more complex. In turn, universities are beginning to adopt a variety of approaches – often led by institution heads.

In this brave new world, how do you go about developing a strategy that works and is embedded in your existing institutional culture? How do you pick your partners and as universities start multiple partnerships in multiple countries, how do you determine who the stakeholders are, to whom you should be accountable? And, perhaps most contentious of all, how do you assess internationalisation strategies? Should universities measure their activities or the impact of those activities? Ultimately, what does quality look like in international higher education?

Join our panel, Friday 17 August to understand the place internationalisation strategies fill within wider higher education and share your experiences and expertise on how the best internationalisation strategies are developed.

Cheating gives lie to our dependence on language testing

High stakes ... parents wait for their children to complete China’s competitive college entrance exam. Photograph: Reuters

Wherever there is testing, there is cheating. But by any standards 2011 will be remembered as a significant year in cheating history.

In June the Chinese media was reporting "high-tech cheating devices" and the equally innovative use of mobile signal jamming and tracking units. These were stationed outside halls where candidates were sitting the highly competitive national college entrance test, the "gaokao", to catch any reprobates.

Similar tales emerged from Vietnam to Venezuela. But this wasn't the only reason for the notoriety of 2011. It was also the industrial-scale cheating by test administrators and teachers, and the professional institutionalisation of cheating practices.

The longest-running saga has been the story of Curtin University English language centre in Australia, where it was alleged that staff accepted bribes to alter certificates in the Ielts test of English. Criminal investigations led to the closure of the centre. A Curtin employee and eight others have since been convicted.

Another rapidly expanding form of cheating is known as "ghost writing", where students pay a professional test taker to sit the test for them. In June Mandarin language reports on the Australian SBS international news site revealed that ghost writers were operating in Ielts centres in Hong Kong. The response of Ielts representatives was to claim the "integrity" of the test. The response of competitors was to claim their tests were more secure.

The China Daily newspaper subsequently reported that thousands of mainland Chinese students use ghost-writing companies based in Hong Kong to avoid the lifetime ban imposed on cheats by Ielts administrators in mainland China.

The US public education sector was rocked earlier this year by revelations that teachers and school principals in the Atlanta education district had changed student responses on state standardised tests before they were marked.

Clearly something is going on that isn't limited to one corner of the globe. What is it? Well, there are major changes in the world to do with money, opportunity and accountability about which language educators and decisions makers need to be aware.

Meritocratic test use was pioneered in 

Mothers in Adult Education Call for Writings

Hundreds of thousands of mothers participate in adult education classes across the U.S.! This Mothers’ Day (May 12), World Education wants to honor their efforts by publishing their stories. Please share our Call for Writings with any mothers you know who are currently participating in an adult education program.

Suggested length is 300-500 words. 10-12 stories will be published online by World Education. A $50 stipend will be paid to each adult education student whose work is accepted for publication. All writings will be considered. The selection will be made by World Education by 3/31. All writings must be received by March 15, 2013.

Studying in the U.S.

Your Educational Qualifications
The most important element in your application package is your educational qualifications, including degrees, diplomas, certificates and the corresponding statement of marks or examination results. The requirements of American institutions are very specific in this regard: final degree and diploma certificates alone are not sufficient, as detailed records of the subjects studied and annual examination results are essential and must be submitted. Take great care in gathering those documents, and do not overlook anything because it will only delay your application. If your documents are not in English, you must have them translated and submit both the translation and the original language documents.
How are foreign qualifications reviewed?
Some universities employ specialists in foreign educational systems and credentials to review documents submitted by international students. Others will instruct applicants to have their credentials evaluated by an independent organization that specializes in foreign credential evaluation, and will provide them with a list of organizations whose evaluations they accept. You can find the right evaluation services by asking the university for instructions. If they offer no special information and you are on your own, you should select a service that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), which has strict professional standards. The evaluation is a written report that contains both a description and an interpretation of foreign education qualifications in US terms. There are two types of evaluation: the basic document-by-document evaluation and the comprehensive course-by-course evaluation. The document-by-document report describes each credential and gives it a US equivalent. A course-by-course report also includes a list of all post-secondary coursework converted in equivalent US semester credits and grades. There is no set fee for this service, as each evaluation has different rates depending on the type of evaluation that is sought. Most fees are in the $150 – $250 range.
What else can an evaluation report do for you?
If you obtain an independent evaluation of your educational qualifications early on, it will give you some idea of what your educational background is worth in the US, and what programs you are qualified for and should apply to and which ones not. That information can be very helpful when you make preparations for study in the United States, especially in using your time and energy most effectively, and in finding the college or university that is just right for you.

Studying in the U.S.

The United States has the largest and most versatile system of higher education. Any student willing and able to study will find a suitable place at one of the more than 3000 American colleges and universities – the key is finding the right institution.
How do I find out about American universities and colleges?
The best source of information today is the Internet. Most institutions have websites that contain a wealth of information and instructions on how to submit an application for admission, including special instructions for international students. If you are not sure which institution(s) you want to apply to, there are a number of useful and user-friendly online search engines that can help you obtain this information free of charge. Please click here for a selection of the most popular sites.
If you do not have access to the Internet, you can contact institutions directly by phone or mail, directing your inquiry to the Admissions Office or the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO). Alternatively, you can find information on American higher education by visiting the nearest US embassy or consulate. They will direct you to a US Information Service Office, or the local agency that offers information on study in the United States.
How do I know which colleges and universities are right for me?
First, you must have a clear idea of what you wish to study and where in the US you would like to be located. There are also financial considerations to take into account, as study in the US is costly and the amount can vary enormously from institution to institution. Field of study, geography and cost will help you narrow your selection.
The next step is to research the universities that appeal to you and obtain information from them. Their web sites will offer complete information, as well as online application forms and instructions and information on how to contact them to ask for additional information not posted online. As it can take some time to complete the application process, the earlier you begin the better it is for you. Start your search at least 12 months in advance; if you are planning to begin your studies in the autumn of 2008 you should start contacting universities in the autumn of 2007. Most American universities admit new students twice a year. Although the largest intake is usually in the autumn, students are also admitted in the spring semester which starts in January;, therefore if you want to start in January of the year 2009, begin your search in January 2008.
What is the application process?
Once you have gathered all the information and application forms from the universities that interest you, read them carefully and follow their instructions. Most will require that you fill out an application form and submit it, together with your educational qualifications, test results and one or more letters of recommendation from former teachers. They will also require that you pay an application fee in most cases. Often the application can be submitted online.
What tests?
Nearly all universities in the United States require applicants to take what are known as ‘standardized tests’ designed to measure students’ aptitude for further study. Students whose native language is not English must also demonstrate their proficiency by taking the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) test or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Exam, which are both administered all over the world. Undergraduate programs usually require the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) or the ACT. Graduate schools of business and MBA programs usually require the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT); post-graduate programs in other disciplines generally require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Information about required tests will be included in the application information provided by the college or university online or through their application materials. Other specialized tests are offered for professional programs such as Law, Medicine, Dentistry, etc.
The Application Review The admissions office is responsible for receiving applications, credentials, test results, letters of recommendations and application fees. When a file is complete, it is reviewed and a decision taken on admission. For post-graduate admission, the file is referred to the department to be reviewed by professors who make the final decision.
The review has several steps. In the first stage, credentials are compared to American credentials to determine whether the candidate meets minimum requirements and deserves further consideration. In the second stage grades, test results and letters of recommendations are closely examined to determine the quality of the application and how it compares with the rest of the applicant pool. It is more difficult to gain admission at a university of very high standing because of the intense competition for places. Even if you are not admitted to one university, do not despair, because there may be others that would be willing to admit you It is common and best to apply to more than one institution and in different locations. Many American students apply to ten schools, three “reach” schools, four “on target” schools, and three “safety” schools, to ensure admission without forfeiting the chance to study at the best school possible.

Expert Advice for Running a Successful Affiliate Marketing Program

Once you have committed yourself to a credible affiliate marketing program, you must immediately begin devising campaigns to attract your targeted customers. In this post, you will find some great advice on Internet marketing strategies that should boost your monthly commission check.

Email marketing keeps customers coming back. You can easily email anyone who signs up for your mailing list to let them know about a recent sale or promotion you are offering. To encourage customers to sign up to your emailing list, add a sign up form on your homepage. Do not require the customer to give too much information; keep the sign-up requirements short and sweet. You should only ask for a name and an email address. Include a clear description of what information customers will find in your emails. Be consistent in sending your newsletter out at regular intervals. Use software that will personalize the emails that are sent out. Be sure to tell your readers about special promotions and incentives. As a final step, ask your customers for their feedback, and thank them for their patronage.

Research your target market to help you determine the most effective methods for reaching them. For example, your younger customers can likely be reached through social networks like Facebook, but your older customers will likely need to be contacted through email subscriptions. Tap into your personal network and inquire among your friends and family for information on their browsing patterns when searching for goods and services. Consider offering your customers a survey to gather their specific preferences on advertising or communication methods. Different strategies might be more adapted to a certain product or target audience. If discretion is important to your customers, avoid using social media as a marketing method. Investigate the various techniques available to you, and try everything that you feel could be effective. Once you have identified strategies that work, continue refining them to make them as effective as possible.

Your affiliate marketing adventures should always be inventive. After getting started, it is important to keep in contact with your customer base, as well as finding new customers. While developing your customized affiliate marketing strategy, consider these tips and see if they apply to your methods.

Expert Affiliate Marketing Methods That are Sure to Succeed

Are you looking to be successful with an affiliate marketing program? First, find a product that you are passionate about, and then work to attract and retain customers. This article gives you advice that will help you accomplish those steps by using email marketing and other advanced marketing techniques.

Email marketing can be very helpful. When you sell something to a customer, ask them to sign up to receive emails from you. Post examples of your emails on your website, along with a link to make it easy for customers to sign up to receive them. Ask your customers for just their name and email address. Let your customers know you will be sending out useful information, as well discounts, in your emails. Be sure to send out content on a regular basis and to use interesting titles in your emails. You can actually use some email programs to personalize mass mailings, which makes customers more likely to open them. Your email should contain content that you have posted in your website, as well as links to your updated pages. It is helpful to offer information about special offers or discounts for email customers. Grow your list of subscribers by offering special deals reserved only for them. Consider connecting with your customers by sending out emails on a regular basis. Email thank you notes or ask your customers their thoughts on your products or offers.

Try to customize the ways in which you keep in touch with your target audience. In essence your target audience is a collection of individuals with varying personalities, so try using a variety of methods to create a solid connection with as many of them as possible. These methods can include interaction through venues such as Facebook, Twitter and email newsletters. Factoring in the demographics of customers may offer you insight. Customer surveys and other marketing tools also do this. Do not overlook the importance of researching your competition. It may even be advisable for you to impersonate a customer in order to discover the best preferences from that angle. You should try different methods, and find one that works for your customers.

One of the reasons affiliate marketing is so effective is that it helps you to stay informed about emerging trends and current information. After you have finished your start-up operations, you need to focus on nurturing the size and strength of your clientele. Using the power of 21st century communication tools is a great way to get a large number of customers quickly. This article will help you to develop good internet marketing strategies.

Advanced Methods for Enjoying Success in Affiliate Marketing

Joining an affiliate network is the first step. Next you need to put your new connections to good use. Use these tips to improve your affiliate marketing strategies.

You can guarantee increased business when you use internet marketing? You should have your site set up in such a way that you ask your customers if they want to be on an email list as they are purchasing an item from your site. The easier you make the sign-up procedure, the more likely they will be to join. You really do not need too much information to get started, just a name and an email address. Entice your customers with discounts and free information that they can use. Use email software to send out unique personalized emails with custom subject lines. People will be more likely to open the emails if the subject line is interesting. Include links to your updated webpage, articles and new content. Remember to offer special discounts or free gifts to those who subscribe to your list, and advertise these discounts on social media and your website. This can increase traffic to your site and help with sales. Build a relationship with your customers. Stay in touch with them by thanking them for their business. Be frank and open with them by asking for feedback, opinions and suggestions. Be sure to comment back on their suggestions, even if they have negative things to say. Always thank them for what they have suggested, even if you will never use their suggestion.

If you understand your audience, you can address their needs. Different age groups will respond to different types of communication. Young people may prefer sites like Facebook and Twitter while older customers would rather receive emails. Learn what works for your competitors, and adapt it to work for you. Visit your competitors' sites under the guise of a customer. Sign up for emails, ezines and tweets. Subscribe to RSS feeds. Use as many interactive methods as you can to determine what the competition is doing right and what they are doing wrong. Create short questionnaires for your customers to fill out, focusing on what they want to see from you and what kind of service they desire. To be successful, try many different strategies, and evaluate the results of each. Take your product into consideration when planning your strategies; depending on your product, some customers may not want to communicate about your products in social networking sites. Constant tweaking and tailoring can be combined with common sense to gradually develop a winning strategy.

Don't think that once you start affiliate marketing, that you're finished, as there are always new things to try out. Affiliate marketing campaigns are constantly making changes. Keep track of the customers you already have. Try to hold on to existing clients and solicit their feedback on what you can do to serve them better. Keep your eye out for new customers and different ways to reach out to them. The advice in this article will improve your affiliate marketing skills so that you can better serve your customers.