Studyportals’ Mark Ovens reveals the incredible ways technology is breaking down borders and creating a more interconnected world of learning, particularly for international students.
Studyportals’ Mark Ovens reveals the incredible ways technology is breaking down borders and creating a more interconnected world of learning, particularly for international students.
From breaking down barriers to fostering cross-cultural connections, technological advancements have played an important role in enhancing student mobility and enriching the academic experience for international students.
In an exclusive interview with MSM Reporter, Mark Ovens, senior partnerships director of Studyportals, discussed how technology has revolutionized the landscape of international education and student mobility. “Technology has broken down many barriers that once hindered the progression and reach of international education and student mobility,” he said.
“It has expanded access to quality education, improved cross-cultural communication, and made the global exchange of knowledge and talent more seamless than ever before.”
Studyportals began as a spin-off from a couple of large international study associations, and in 2007, Mastersportal.com was developed and proved to be a success, with subsequent expansions into Bachelorsportal.com, PhDportal.com, Shortcoursesportal.com, and Distancelearningportal.com.
Headquartered in Eindhoven in the Netherlands, Studyportals has been assisting 52 million global students since 2021 in their exploration of study programs and informed decision-making across over 200,000 courses offered by over 3,750 educational institutions spanning 110 countries.
The rise of the virtual classroom
Ovens said that one of the most notable impacts of technology on student mobility is the advent of online learning and virtual classrooms. Through these innovative platforms, students can access education from anywhere in the world, eliminating the need to relocate to study at prestigious institutions abroad. This newfound flexibility has opened doors for international students, enabling them to pursue quality education regardless of geographical constraints.
Ovens said virtual reality and augmented reality technologies have also contributed to enhancing student mobility. Prospective international students can take virtual tours of campuses, participate in orientation sessions, and engage in cultural activities before physically arriving at their chosen institutions. The immersive experience allows students to make well-informed decisions about their academic journey and fosters a sense of belonging even before they set foot on campus.
“Language learning apps and online testing through companies like Duolingo have made it easier for students to learn new languages, communicate effectively, and confirm their level of ability for study or visa entrance criteria,” he said.
Increased connections for international students
Moreover, Ovens said social media, peer-to-peer sites and online forums provide platforms for international students to connect with peers from around the world pre-and post -arrival, easing the transition to a new country. He also noted that technology has facilitated personalized learning experiences through AI-driven adaptive learning systems. These systems analyze individual students’ needs, preferences, and learning styles, tailoring educational content to optimize their learning outcomes.
“Technology has made it possible for international students to access remote internships and part-time job opportunities globally, allowing them to gain valuable work experience while studying,” Ovens said. He added this enables virtual exchange programs, where students from different countries can collaborate on projects, attend joint classes, and engage in cross-cultural discussions through online platforms.
“Educational institutions can offer online counseling, mental health support, and academic advising services tailored to the needs of international students, ensuring their well-being and academic success,” the edtech expert said.
Another significant implication of technology in international student mobility lies in the realm of global collaboration. As Ovens explained, advancements in communication tools, data analytics, and AI have facilitated greater collaboration among researchers and academics from different countries. Cross-border research projects and partnerships have the potential to drive breakthroughs in various fields, enriching the learning experience for students and educators alike.
Looking ahead, the future of international education and student mobility is poised to be even more transformative with ongoing technological advancements.
Bid for sustainability
Ovens suggested that sustainable and eco-friendly practices are also on the horizon, as virtual events, paperless administrative processes, and green campus initiatives are explored to reduce the carbon footprint of international education.
The influence of technology in enhancing student mobility in international education, as highlighted by Ovens, is undeniable. With its ability to transcend geographical boundaries, foster cross-cultural connections, and personalize learning experiences, technology has transformed the educational landscape.
“The future of international education and student mobility shaped by technology will hopefully be more inclusive, interconnected, and dynamic,” he said. “As technology continues to evolve, it will break down barriers, bridge gaps, and provide students with unprecedented opportunities for learning, collaboration, and personal growth on a global scale.”
