The state of virtual internationalisation at higher education institutions in Germany
This guest article summarises the key findings of a study on the impact of digitalisation on the internationalisation of German universities. Virtual internationalisation (VI) is a high priority. The results are based on the findings of the INDISTRA project and the 6th IAU Global Survey Report. The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the digital transformation. External drivers include demographic trends and regional policies, while internal momentum comes primarily from international offices and university administration. Universities are increasingly relying on various forms of VI such as COIL and virtual exchanges; however, they face challenges such as a lack of long-term funding, dependence on project financing, data protection issues and recognition obstacles. The resource-intensive nature of digitalisation is often underestimated, ultimately hampering its implementation. The study shows that digitalisation facilitates long-term development when it is usefully combined with physical mobility, adapted to institutional needs and supported by stable funding and appropriate legal frameworks.
Beiträge
weitere Infos
Vögtle, E. M., & Marinoni, G. (2026). The state of virtual internationalisation at higher education institutions in Germany. In N. Netz, J. Kercher, N. Knüttgen & I. Fuge (eds.), Wissenschaft weltoffen 2025. Facts and Figures on the Internationalisation of Studies and Research in Germany and Worldwide (pp. 112-117). wbv. https://doi.org/10.3278/7004002xew003
Bibliografische Angaben
- Auflage: 1
- Erscheinungsdatum: 09.02.2026
- Umfang: 6 Seiten
- Artikelnr: 7004002xew003
- ISBN E-Book (PDF): 9783763979554
- DOI (E-Book-Teilbeitrag): 10.3278/7004002xew003
- Imprint: wbv Publikation
- Sprache: Deutsch
- Lizenzhinweis:
- Autor(en): Eva Maria Vögtle, Giorgio Marinoni