Management of internationalization at the University of Costa Rica and its relation to Central America and the Caribbean

Abstract

This article presents the results of a research whose general objective was to analyze the administration of the internationalization activities and academic cooperation at the University of Costa Rica during the period 2003-2011, with higher education institutions of Central America and the Caribbean. It is an exploratory and descriptive study, based on qualitative research techniques. The methodology and techniques of information collection include instruments, such as interviews, and documentary and digital bibliographic material. Data analysis is presented by categories that supported the study: cooperation agreements, academic and students’ mobility, research, awards and successful experiences in academic units of UCR schools. Main findings of this study include: knowledge of internationalization dynamics on a two-way basis; relevant outcomes and limitations found in the process and identification of good practices. The regional cooperation linkages of UCR have strengthened significantly undergraduate and graduate programs. The study reveals strategies that have contributed to improve the integration higher education internationalization of UCR on Central America and the Caribbean Region.