INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIPS AS A DRIVER OF RESEARCH PRODUCTIVITY AND INCLUSIVE PRACTICES IN KAZAKHSTANI HIGHER EDUCATION

Abstract

International academic mobility programs and internships offer faculty members valuable opportunities to explore and adopt diverse teaching methodologies from global educational systems. These experiences help improve the quality of education and foster the development of inclusive practices. Exposure to various academic environments enables faculty to gain new skills, broaden their perspectives, build international professional networks, and enrich their teaching practices through cultural exchange and strengthened partnerships.

This study aims to explore the impact of international exchange programs and internships on the research and professional productivity of faculty members in the context of higher education internationalization in Kazakhstan. It also evaluates how these programs contribute to inclusive education practices.

The research combines a literature review with empirical data collected through a survey of 51 faculty members from over 10 Kazakhstani universities. Regardless of program type or host country, respondents consistently reported the benefits of international education across multiple aspects of academic and professional development.