MU Professor Blogging at COP-16 (Cancun)

MU Professor Mike Urban is serving as an official observer (for the Association of American Geographers)  at the COP-16 meetings on Climate Change in Cancun.  Follow his regular posts on these important meetings here.

Recommended Readings on Thailand

On my recent trip to Thailand, my experience was focused on the Northeast of the country in Isan.  I sense that not many Westerners visit this region.  If so, it's a real shame. 

I'm determined to learn more about the culture I found so appealing.  Thanks to Bonnie Brereton - a respected scholar in the region I met on my trip, I have a few books to add to my readings.


Buddhist Murals of Northeast Thailand: Reflections of the Isan Heartland


Forest Recollections: Wandering Monks in Twentieth-Century Thailand.

Child of the Northeast, by Kampoon Boontawee. translated by Susan Fulop Kepner. Editions Duang Kamol.

My Trip to Thailand

I just returned from a long, but very rewarding trip to Thailand.  I spoke at the International Conference on Local Government, organized by the College of Local Administration at Khon Kaen University.  The conference attracted approximately 500 scholars and public officials from 13 different countries.  I learned much from the conference. 

This was my first time to Isan -- Northeast Thailand. Our hosts at KKU were most gracious.  I'll never forget the food, the hospitality and the beauty of the culture.

Does Study Abroad Need a Makeover?

I saw the article this morning, and it’s thought provoking.  The title suggests that the study abroad experience needs a makeover.

I am ambivalent about the angle it takes. 

Here’s what I mean. 

Clearly, the most important element of the study abroad experience is learning to communicate across cultures.  Our advisors try to get this message across to students (and parents) from the time they are considering a program through “re-entry”.

On the other hand, I think the article draws on shaky evidence that international experience doesn’t impress employers.  For every survey that suggests that, we could find at least one that suggests the opposite.  I saw a study recently that says that 30% of US CEOs had studied abroad in college.  Of those, 2/3 instruct their staff to recruit people with study abroad experience.  

I am skeptical about that finding as well.  I think many professionals tend to oversell or over-promise what the study abroad experience can accomplish for a young person.

Bottom line – it is the cross-cultural element that’s key.  Study abroad is not the only way to experience that.  It is one important opportunity.  I believe what should distinguish study abroad from “backpacking across Europe” is the academic context to help students reflect on and appreciate their cross-cultural learning.

Study Abroad -- Misperceptions and Use of Alcohol

All too often, consumption of alcohol becomes a key component of study abroad programs.  Despite clear and specific discussion about alcohol as part of our orientation sessions, we see this issue negatively affecting student experience.

Alcohol can (literally and figuratively) numb the student's sensitivity to the cross-cultural richness of their program, and significantly limit their academic performance as well.

Recently, via Inside Higher Education, I saw this article in the University of Washington News.  It provides research findings, and suggests strategies to address the issues.

October 12 - Careers in the US State Department

U.S. Department of State Careers

Tuesday, October 12, 2010
1:30-3 p.m.
S203 Memorial Union

Presented by Ed Wehrli, Diplomat-in-Residence, University of Oklahoma

·         Learn about a career opportunity unlike any other.
·         Discover how you can have a global impact.
·         Show the world a side of America it has never seen.


Sponsored by the MU International Center

Call for Collaboration with South African Student Leaders

For the past few days we've been hosting visitors from our long-standing partner -- the University of the Western Cape.  Yesterday, Khaya Magopeni made an excellent presentation on "the University-Student Relationship: the Courage to Take a Positive Journey.

Thanks to the Columbia Missourian, you can read about it here.

How Segregated is Your City?

I stumbled across this post from Fast Company.  It shows striking maps of racial composition of the forty largest US cities. 

The maps say a lot about life in the United States. 

Two Upcoming International Events - University of Missouri

Two upcoming events at the University of Missouri:

First, tomorrow is International Day.  There are events scheduled throughout the day. 

Second, next Monday, Oct. 4, the International Center is co-sponsoring a session (with MU Student Affairs and the MU Graduate School) that features a very interesting speaker from the University of the Western Cape (South Africa).

Please share these announcements, and I hope you can attend.

Social Media -- and Study Abroad

In my last post, I shared some recent readings on social media.

Jason Kinnear shared this post, called How the Internet Screwed Up Study Abroad.

This piece doesn't provide a holistic balanced view of the benefits and challenges of using social media to support study abroad programs.  However, it's worth reading and thinking about.

Recent Readings on Social Media

I've been thinking a lot recently about social media, and how we might apply this approach more effectively in higher education and at MU's International Center. 

I'll have more to share in the future -- but here are two pieces I'm reading that might be of interest.

First, a recent book by Brogan and Smith, called Trust Agents: Using the Web to Build Influence, Improve Reputation and Earn Trust.   This work invites a paradigm shift for me on what we could be doing with social media to support the Center's mission.  In fact, it challenges me to re-think my approach to building and sustaining relationships in general.

Second, a brief blog post on how organizations manage social media on the Web Strategist blog.  It really sheds new light on real -- and desired -- organizational culture.

New Global Development Site

If you're concerned about global development issues, check out this content-rich website just launched at the Guardian, in partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. 

The data warehouse alone is worth your time.  They also provide powerful info-graphs.

UK Universities in Tough Economic Times

Universities in the US can learn from how our partner (and competitive) institutions are responding to significant cuts in public funding.

The latest report released by Universities UK is definitely worth reading. 

MU Study Abroad Fair Today

Stop by MU's Study Abroad Fair -- 11 am - 3 pm today at the Memorial Union.  Faculty members, staff, students, parents -- and all interested in dozens of incredible learning opportunities around the world are welcome. 

The fair is organized by Matt Pourney and our great study abroad staff at the International Center. 

If you're thinking about study abroad this Spring, Summer, or somewhere down the line, check out our website, and stop by the Fair (details and directions).

Things You Should Know about (International) Student Names

I stumbled upon this post at EverythingESL -- a blog about teaching English as a second language.

As classes at Missouri hit full stride, it's good for faculty, staff and students to appreciate the cultural distinctions revealed in student names.

This post (and attached comments) offer some helpful background.

New International Students at University of Missouri -- Culture Shock

This was the second day of orientation for new international students at MU. 

So many people... so much to do... so much to learn and unlearn...


We've got great students starting at Missouri, coping with culture shock.

Thanks to the Columbia Tribune for covering this story -- and thanks to the volunteers and staff at the International Center for great service.

International students begin new year at Missouri

Today is the first day of orientation for new international students at Missouri.  The International Center is buzzing.  Our great staff and dozens of MU student volunteers are welcoming hundreds of new students from all over the world. 

It's really great to see such a warm welcome.  Thanks to everyone involved.

Iraqis Pursue Education at University of Missouri

On the same day I read news about US combat troops withdrawing from Iraq, it was great to see this story in our local newspaper.

Art in South Africa

This morning, I find myself reflecting on a recent trip to South Africa.  Working with Missouri's good partners at the University of the Western Cape is always inspiring. They are doing incredibly ambitious work in spite of serious resource constraints.

On the last day of our visit, we wandered into the South African National Gallery.  I had no expectations, except that it looked like a nice place to visit while waiting for a long flight back home.  If you ever get to Capetown, there are so many things to do.  But don't leave the city without stopping at this museum.

It's filled with contemporary works that are beautiful, vibrant, and genuine.  It reminds me of the palpable creative energy I feel each time I visit the country, and each time I work with our colleagues at UWC.

I'm going to jail for good!

I'll be incarcerated next Thursday, Aug. 19, to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Assn.  I can't get out until I raise $1,000 in bail money.  So far, I've raised about $300. 

With your help, I can be released on good behavior.  For more information, please check here .

Thanks!

Summer Reading

In the dog days of summer -- I'm reading two books I can't put down.

The first, is Cognitive Surplus, by Clay Sharky.  This blurb from the publisher provides a helpful summary:

The author of the breakout hit Here Comes Everybody reveals how new technology is changing us from consumers to collaborators, unleashing a torrent of creative production that will transform our world.

This is a short, practical book, and I recommend it to anyone involved in teaching or learning.

The second, is a novel by Marlene Van Niekerk, called Agaat.  Whenever I travel, I try to read works of fiction by local writers.  I chose this book for my recent trip to South Africa.  This is a beautiful and painful story.  It offers great insight into race and gender relations -- in South Africa and through out the world.

Global Migration Outlook: Implications for Higher Education

There's a great post on Worldwise -- the Chronicle of Higher Education's blog on international issues.

This post, by Francisco Marmolejo, draws on the OECD's annual International Migration Outlook.

It's estimated that 200 million people are currently living outside their home country.  A small - but growing - proportion of these people are students pursuing their education.  These young people with "mobile talent" will be key assets in the global economy.   It's understandable why international competition to attract these students has intensified.

Marmolejo says...

A combination of factors influence the attraction of more or fewer international students by a given country, including the perceived quality and prestige of institutions and academic programs, affordability of tuition in the host country, availability of scholarships and loans for mobility in both host and home countries, language of instruction, effectiveness of outreach and marketing efforts carried on by institutions and governments, perception surrounding the degree of friendliness and openness of the country, among many others. In addition, increasingly students take into consideration how difficult and costly is the visa process, and how flexible the migratory policies are regulating their opportunities to conduct further practical training and eventually to work. According to Nafsa–Association of International Educators, talented students and skilled workers will go to the places that welcome them and offer the best opportunities. Unfortunately the U.S. has been "slow to appreciate and adjust to a paradigm shift in global mobility." The title of the policy briefing authored by Nafsa couldn’t be more eloquent: "A Visa and Immigration Policy for the Brain-Circulation Era: Adjusting to What Happened in the World While We Were Making Other Plans."

Nelson Mandela Day

My thoughts today turn to Nelson Mandela -- the greatest living statesman in the world.  Today, we celebrate his 92nd birthday, and seek to follow his example.

Academic Outcomes of Study Abroad

Findings from a ten-year study of academic outcomes of study abroad in the University of Georgia System were just released at last month's NAFSA conference.

Research in this area is rapidly expanding -- and much needed.  This study may be the most comprehensive available to date.

A summary of findings was published in today's Inside Higher Ed.

For more detailed information on this study abroad research project (survey instruments, data, presentations, publications, partnership, etc.) check here.

South Africa - After the World Cup

I'm traveling to South Africa shortly to work with our good partners at the University of the Western Cape.

This trip will be in the afterglow of the country's amazing success in hosting the World Cup tournament.

Here's a brief tribute to South Africa published in today's New York Times.

Also -- congratulations to MU law students for their efforts to support community and youth sports while in Capetown.

The Euro-zone Crisis: Good Graphics

I noticed this recent summary of economic trends and policy responses in the Euro-zone. Whether or not you're focused on the global competition in higher education, I think you'll find these graphics of interest.

How the World Views the EU

My good colleague, Gareth Harding has published this multimedia piece on how the world now views the institutions of the European Union.

It will take some time -- but I recommend that you check it out.

Ireland: the High Cost of Austerity

Our Ireland study abroad program was a great success. My students were dynamic and engaged. I think we all learned much from the trip -- both in and out of the class meetings.

One of the two courses -- Facing the Future: Ireland Responds to Economic Crisis -- focused on the current economic, social and political conditions of a small struggling country. I'll share more about this experience shortly.

If you're interested, this recent article in the New York Times provides a good overview of the dilemmas Irish people face.

Globalization -- and Asia's Return to Economic Supremacy

This week, our study abroad program is visiting at University College Dublin -- comparing the response to global economic crisis in Ireland and the US, and assessing the long-term effects on these two countries.



Today, we had an excellent presentation by Dr. Niamh Hardiman (of UCD's Geary Institute) entitled Liberalism in Crisis. She showed well the magnitude of economic, fiscal and political challenges European countries now face.



Tonight, I read this essay by Michael Hennigan at Finfacts.



It will take time, but I think you'll find it worth reading.

Bad Luck for the Irish Economy

I just arrived in Dublin -- to lead an MU study abroad program in Ireland/N. Ireland. (See here, here and here for more background).


I teach a course called Facing the Future: Ireland's Response to Economic Crisis. Ironically, today a friend sent this post.


It's worth reading -- including the comments.

Volcano -- More Transatlantic Flight Delays

With many MU study abroad programs starting in Europe shortly, we track the volcanic ash plume pretty closely.

See the latest report on flight delays and re-routes.

Also - for real-time information on European airspace issues, see Euro Control (The European Organization for the Safety of Air Navigation)

Mexico Travel Warning - Expanded

The US State Department expanded its travel warning to several states or regions in Mexico.

If you (or your loved ones) are preparing for a trip there, please read this carefully.

Travel warnings issued by the State Department should always be taken very seriously.

For a list of current warnings, and for additional assistance, please see this page.

China's Role in World Food Prices

A good colleague, Pat Westhoff at MU's Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute, provided this excellent guest post on how developments in China may affect food prices through out the world. This work appeared in the New York Time's Freakanomics Blog.

Pat is also the author of a newly published book on the economics of food. If you're concerned about food security -- check this out.

More on Irish housing surplus

As a quick follow up to this recent post -

Here's a piece about what it's like to live in one of Ireland's 621 newly-developed, but largely unoccupied housing subdivisions.

One in five housing units is now vacant in Ireland.

US branch campuses abroad: survey results

On GlobalHigherEd, I saw this post that summarizes research on US university branch campus-abroad initiatives. The post is contributed by Madeline Green at the Center for International Initiatives at the American Council on Education.

The introduction to this post provides links to useful resources for those considering branch campus ventures.

For a more complete report of research findings, check here.

New Magazine on the Bologna Process

At the Hedda Blog, I note this announcement about a new magazine designed to explicate the issues and the achievements of higher education reform in Europe.

For casual observers, the Bologna process can be a challenge to decipher technical terms and jargon, and to search for the core issues. (For some background, see here, here and here).

This new publication seems quite accessible. In fact, you can access it here.

South Africa Higher Education Summit

The University World News provides very practical coverage of last week's summit on higher education in Cape Town, South Africa.

The summit involved representatives from all key stakeholder groups, including government officials, university administrators, faculty, support staff, and students.

Here are six brief but different perspectives that the News published.

An endorsement of stakeholder involvement

A challenge to make higher education more accessible

A report on the persistence of discrimination at universities

A faculty Jeremiad on higher education in shambles

Students speak out

A keynote called Transformation is not for sissies.

Maybe it's time to organize similar events in the US.

MU Study Abroad: Effects of Iceland Volcano

Here's an update on how the Iceland volcano has affected current MU students enrolled in European programs.


The update was published in the Columbia Missourian.

Update on Volcano Disruptions from US State Dept.

Here's the latest announcement from the US State Department if you're affected by the disruption in travel in/to or from Europe.

MU Announces 2010 International Engagement Awards

MU's Council on International Initiatives is pleased announce the recipients of the 2010 International Engagement awards.

Congratulations to all nominees, and thanks to all involved in the selection process.

See the full announcement here.

Marshall Scholar Brian Pellot - April 21

The MU International Center is delighted to co-sponsor a special campus-wide presentation by MU senior and Marshall Scholar Brian Pellot.

If you're interested an able to attend, see this announcement for details.

For more information on the prestigious Marshall Scholarships, see this site.

Our thanks to the MU Fellowships Office, the College of Arts and Sciences, its International Studies degree, the International Programs Office at the MU School of Journalism, and the Convergence Journalism program for co-sponsoring this event.

Economic Impact of Iceland Volcano

Ash from the Iceland volcano is wreaking havoc on travelers and others who depend on air flights to/from European airports.

It's too early to predict when the disruption of eruptions will end. (Check here for some amazing photographs of the volcano).

Many students and faculty members are anxious about travel required for study abroad.

This BBC article provides rough estimates of immediate and possibly long-term economic impacts.

See also this New York Times article that focuses on the response of various governments to flight disruption.

More Reading for Academic Leaders

As follow up to my last post, I share three other (brief) essays I stumbled upon recently. If you aspire to academic leadership - or work with someone who does - these may be of interest.

First, The right kind of nothing. It's about leadership responsibility, control and (some times) the need to let go.

A brief excerpt:

Two qualities characterize an academic administrator. The first is a capacity to take responsibility. The second is a need for control. Your position on those two dimensions determines how effective you can be as a manager, and for how long.

The most successful administrators—the ones who accomplish the most and don't burn out—have an enormous sense of responsibility but a very small need for control.

Second, How Professors are Like Cats. (The comments are worth reading).

Third, Ten Red Flags for Innovation. Business Week's Stephan Lindegaard says...

There's no surefire way to guarantee success in innovation. (Here are) 10 helpful suggestions of common pitfalls to avoid.

Read about the red flags here.

Reading: The Anxious Organization

I'm reading Jeffrey Miller's book, The Anxious Organization.  If you're studying or working at a public university right now (or hope to someday), you'll probably want to check this out.  It provides valuable insights, practical tips -- and the recommended reading list at the back is worth the effort to buy the book.

By the way -- this book works for any organizational setting.  It argues that anxiety is to be expected for organizations in a competitive environment. 

The challenge for leaders: 1) learn the causes and the systematic effects of anxiety, and 2) help people manage anxiety in ways that enhance overall organizational performance.

International Graduate Student Admissions Increase in US

The Council of Graduate Schools (CGS) just released survey results that show international graduate student applications increased in the US for the fifth consecutive year.  Based on survey responses, totals are up by 7% over last year.

This increase has been fueled by double-digit growth rates in students from China.  Recent application declines from India and Korea stabilized this year.

Trends vary significantly by field of study and by type of host university. 

For more information see the media release and the full report.  the survey was on applications, not admissions. CGS' annual survey on admissions (and final application numbers) will be released in August.

Previous years’ surveys are posted here.

Minnesota Integrates Study Abroad Into the Curriculum

The Chronicle of Higher Education has this report on how the University of Minnesota integrates study abroad into its curriculum. 

Participation in study abroad there has grown steadily -- as a result of in-depth discussion between academic departments and the University's Learning Abroad Center.

Here's an excerpt from the Chronicle's piece, including an interview with Center Director Martha Johnson:

For engineering, studying in another country might be relevant because of the increasingly global nature of the profession, while for students of graphic design, the appeal could be the opportunity to explore the influence of foreign artists on their home turf.

Each department "defines in its own terms why it's important to go abroad," Ms. Johnson says.
The group then works together to pinpoint times when overseas study can best fit into the curriculum. And Ms. Johnson and her staff work to provide programmatic choices.
Over the last decade, Minnesota has added more than 50 programs to enable students in nontraditional disciplines to study abroad, says Ms. Johnson, who gets ribbed by colleagues from other colleges on visits to study-abroad sites when she asks about offerings in areas like soil sciences or volcanology. Some 200 Minnesota faculty members have also gone overseas in recent years to review programs.

Other study-abroad options include academic exchanges that grow out of professors' international research collaborations and short-term programs led by Minnesota faculty members. For example, professors affiliated with the university's health-careers center, which works with students considering jobs in medicine and other health-related careers, are planning a seminar in India, focusing on public health and primary care in tribal areas.
In all, the university has more than 300 options for students wishing to study overseas.
The common thread, Ms. Johnson says, is that all programs must be evaluated and approved by the department, not just her office.

For more information on Minnesota's approach to curriculum integration, check here.

India: $1 Billion loan to improve engineering education

I see in the University World News that the World Bank has issued a $1 billion loan to improve the quality of engineering education in India.  This program will directly benefit up to 200 institutions of higher education, to be selected on a competitive basis.

Economic Crisis: Effects on Study Abroad

Last fall, the Forum on Education Abroad conducted a survey on how the global economic crisis has affected study abroad participation in the US.

Here are the published results.

Generally, most reporting institutions saw negative effects on study abroad.  At the University of Missouri we have not had this experience. (For example, see this recent post.)

The Future of Higher Ed in Haiti

This report from Inside Higher Ed...

A new study of higher education in Haiti -- the first to examine the state of the system in the wake of the Jan. 12 earthquake -- documents debilitating problems that existed before the natural disaster and have only been compounded by the lost lives and destroyed infrastructure.
The devastation in Haiti was so widespread that it was immediately clear in the weeks after the earthquake that all levels of education suffered the deaths and injuries of students and instructors, and the collapse of classrooms. But a study issued Tuesday by Haiti's Interuniversity Institute for Research and Development -- a respected think tank known by its acronym INURED -- documents the extent of the damage, and of the problems that existed previously.

Find the full report here.

For an eyewitness account of the January 12 earthquake, and the first response to calls for assistance, please see this event on the MU campus later today.

Rural Haiti Struggles Following Earthquake

This Wednesday we're co-hosting a campus-wide lecture on the challenges of aid and reconstruction following the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

Much of the world's attention today is on health care reform legislation in the US.  Though it no longer occupies headlines, Haiti still struggles in the aftermath of January disaster.

Three different stories come to mind.

First, this article describes how rural communities in Haiti struggle to absorb city populations displaced by the earthquake.

Second, yesterday's  60 Minutes on CBS followed the efforts (and grief) of a few Haitian volunteers.

These stories remind me of an excellent book by Tracy Kidder, called Mountains Beyond Mountains.  This book tells the story of Dr. Paul Farmer, his visionary work on health and health care in Haiti, which has developed into Partners in Health.  I highly recommend the book -- and Dr. Farmer's work.

***
At Wednesday's campus lecture, I'm sure we'll hear even more challenging stories about the struggle in Haiti.

Chinese PhD Students Stay in the US

This account published in the University World News...

More than nine in every 10 students from China who gained a doctorate in the United States in 2002 were still in the country in 2007, the highest percentage from any foreign nation. This compares with 62% of all foreign-born PhD recipients for that year, says a new report.

The figures come from a study by Michael Finn at the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education in Tennessee, published in the National Science Foundation's Science and Engineering Indicators 2010.

Five-year stay rates for students from other countries include 81% for India and 77% for Russia. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of PhDs in either physical or life sciences remained for five years after earning their degrees compared with 51% of those with PhDs in agricultural sciences.

The study found that while most foreign PhD students planned to stay in the US after graduation, among the 2004-07 graduates, about half had accepted firm offers of employment.

Between 2000-03 and 2004-07, however, the percentage reporting definite plans to stay on decreased among those with science and engineering doctorates from all top five countries - China, India, South Korea, Taiwan and Canada. For all but Taiwan, the increases in the number awarded doctorates more than offset the declines in the percentage staying.

Read the full story here.

US Immigration Reform: Green Cards for STEM Students

Senators Charles Schumer (D-NY) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) are proposing US immigration reform that includes new incentives for the best and brightest students around the world to pursue graduate degrees at US universities.

In an op-ed in today's Washington Post, they say...

Ending illegal immigration, however, cannot be the sole objective of reform. Developing a rational legal immigration system is essential to ensuring America's future economic prosperity.
Ensuring economic prosperity requires attracting the world's best and brightest. Our legislation would award green cards to immigrants who receive a PhD or master's degree in science, technology, engineering or math from a U.S. university. It makes no sense to educate the world's future inventors and entrepreneurs and then force them to leave when they are able to contribute to our economy.

This bipartisan proposal is far from realization.  However, it represents a very important opportunity for students, universities and US employers.

Secretary Clinton and St. Patrick

Few Americans in history are more highly regarded than Secretary of State Hilary Clinton.  For many years she's been a champion of peace and an advocate for children in the North and South.  According to her speech at the American Ireland Fund Gala last night, she's never visited Ireland on St. Patrick's Day.

Tonight, she is en route to Moscow -- but her entourage will stop in Shannon for an hour - so she can enjoy that distinction.

Take a minute to read her keynote address last night and her official proclamation from today.

Ushahidi - Emergency Response in Haiti

We are co-hosting an important campus lecture next week. Dr. Valerie Kaussen, Associate Professor of Romance Languages & Literatures, will discuss her recent experiences working on Haiti aid efforts following the devastating earthquake of January 12. She will address what she sees as some of the challenges and pitfalls of helping in Haiti's reconstruction efforts as well as share her thoughts on proposed models for Haitian post-earthquake development.

Recently, the New York Times reported on a new approach used for emergency response in Haiti.

A brief excerpt...

Ushahidi suggests a new paradigm in humanitarian work. The old paradigm was one-to-many: foreign journalists and aid workers jet in, report on a calamity and dispense aid with whatever data they have. The new paradigm is many-to-many-to-many: victims supply on-the-ground data; a self-organizing mob of global volunteers translates text messages and helps to orchestrate relief; journalists and aid workers use the data to target the response.

Ushahidi also represents a new frontier of innovation. Silicon Valley has been the reigning paradigm of innovation, with its universities, financiers, mentors, immigrants and robust patents. Ushahidi comes from another world, in which entrepreneurship is born of hardship and innovators focus on doing more with less, rather than on selling you new and improved stuff.
Because Ushahidi originated in crisis, no one tried to patent and monopolize it. Because Kenya is poor, with computers out of reach for many, Ushahidi made its system work on cellphones. Because Ushahidi had no venture-capital backing, it used open-source software and was thus free to let others remix its tool for new projects.

Ushahidi remixes have been used in India to monitor elections; in Africa to report medicine shortages; in the Middle East to collect reports of wartime violence; and in Washington, D.C., where The Washington Post partnered to build a site to map road blockages and the location of available snowplows and blowers.

Think about that. The capital of the sole superpower is deluged with snow, and to whom does its local newspaper turn to help dig out? Kenya.


With every new application, Ushahidi is quietly transforming the notion of bearing witness in tragedy. For a very long time, this was done first by journalists in real time, next by victim/writers like Anne Frank and, finally, by historians. But in this instantaneous age, this kind of testimony confronts a more immediate kind: one of aggregate, average, good-enough truths.

International Education - China and India Outlook

I was poking around on Finfacts - preparing for our summer study abroad course on the Irish Facing the Future. 

While there - I came across this article that compares demographic outlooks in BRIC countries.

As most US public universities, MU is very interested in attracting talented students from China and India. As we position ourselves in these highly competitive markets, we need to compare demographic outlooks, institutional strengths and connections, and effective demands for higher education in these (and other) countries.

Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Bologna Process

Yesterday and today, European Ministers of Education are meeting to mark the 10th anniversary of the Bologna Process - the largest and most ambitious higher education reform in history.

Earlier this week, the European University Association released its Trends VI report - part of a continuing evaluation of these reform efforts.

The European Students Association have also released a report that provides their perspective on Bologna.

Short-Term Study Abroad -- for University Administrators

In a recent essay, University of San Francisco President Stephen Privett argues that sending university leaders on short-term immersion travel to developing countries can have big effects.  He suggests that this is just as important as sending students.

Some excerpts from his essay...

While the value for students of spending time abroad is widely promoted by many colleges, ours may be the only one in the country that sees those experiences as essential for college leaders as well.

and...

Everyone in a leadership position at the University of San Francisco has seen firsthand the immense human suffering, caused by deadly poverty, afflicting the majority of the people in our global village. It is essential that higher education prepares students, and those who teach them, to confront that global reality. Colleges must not narrow their educational horizons to student "success," as that term is often defined by popular culture.

and...

The underlying questions of higher education today should be: "How does what our institutions are doing with the 1 percent of the world who are our students affect the other 99 percent? (emphasis added). What is our role in helping our students be humanly in this world?" Immersion experiences give such questions an urgency and centrality that they would not otherwise have.

People often ask me, "What do you hope to accomplish with these expensive immersion experiences for the leadership team?'' I explain, first of all, that such experiences are not expensive; in fact, they are significantly less costly than an administrative retreat at any of a number of conference centers. Second, I do not expect that such experiences will lead immediately to new programs and significant changes in university requirements or policies.

What I hope is that university leaders will develop an increased sensitivity to the heartbreaking struggles of the 1.8 billion people whose daily struggle is simply to stay alive. Our experiences put us face to face with the gross global inequities that are the context of our educational efforts. The Spanish word for this is conscientizacion —a process of developing a deepening and profound personal awareness of our world, and of our consequent responsibility and capacity to change it for the better.

Immersion experiences reinforce the urgency and significance of that insight, and shape the decisions and direction that our vice presidents and deans set for their units. Starting next summer, we will offer immersion programs for some faculty members as well. We are also considering making such experiences required for students' graduation, instead of offering them as enrichment opportunities, as we do now.

Read his entire essay here.

The Challenges of Aid and Reconstruction in Haiti

The MU International Center is pleased to co-sponsor this campus event on March 24. 

Major new Bologna Process Report Published

This announcement from the European University Association...

A new report published today by the European University Association (EUA) analyses the implementation of the Bologna Process and its impact over the last decade on higher education across 46 countries in Europe in the context of broader reform processes affecting European higher education.

The ‘Trends 2010’ report – based on questionnaire responses from 821 universities, 27 national university associations, and site visits to 16 countries – will be presented in Vienna this week to mark the official launch of the European Higher Education Area and the end of the first phase of the Bologna reform Process (that was started in 1999).
This major study (the sixth in the Trends series) analyses the implementation of the Bologna ‘tools’ in universities (e.g. new degree structures, credit transfer and accumulation systems, and the use of the diploma supplement) since the outset. Importantly, it also assesses progress towards the underlying aims of the Bologna Process, such as improving quality of teaching, graduate employability, and mobility of students and staff. Equally, it looks at some of the key challenges for policymakers as they look ahead to the next decade of higher education cooperation.

EUA President, Professor Jean-Marc Rapp, will present some of the key findings from the study at this week’s Bologna Ministerial meeting. “We are now at a crucial point in the history of European higher education cooperation. This study shows that after ten years the ‘Bologna architecture’ is now firmly in place to build a strong common higher education area,” he says. ‘”However, it is crucial now that these reforms receive the necessary support from all stakeholders in order to create a flexible European Higher Education Area which provides graduates with all of the necessary skills to succeed in the 21st century,” he adds.

Download the report here.

Download the press release here to read some of the key findings.

Historic Vote in Northern Ireland Assembly

Today marks an historic vote by the Northern Ireland Assembly to move forward with the transfer of authority for police and justice from Westminster.  

This link provides a good summary of the action, plus useful background materials.

Google and Language Translation

For several years, I've dabbled with learning French.  I listen to French music and podcasts, watch the daily weather forecasts, read news accounts and try to follow current events.  Despite this effort, I still speak the language with the skills of my two-year old grand daughter.

If I need to comprehend a professional document in French, I must rely on heavy use of dictionaries, grammars or the services of a skilled interpreter.  If I'm really pressed for time, I've used Google translation.

Google has always been a last resort -- because I've assumed that the nuances of interpretation should not be left to machines.  Now, Google is using its data resources and incomprehensible computing power to refine its translation tools.

I was skeptical at first, but check out this test of its new capacity.

I'm still committed to learning language -- but in the meantime, I may be using Google Translation more often.

Economic Crisis: Similarities between Ireland and US

New York Times columnist Paul Krugman had a great piece on some differences and some key similarities in the sources of economic crisis in the US and Ireland.

He says..

So what can we learn from the way Ireland had a U.S.-type financial crisis with very different institutions? Mainly, that we have to focus as much on the regulators as on the regulations. By all means, let’s limit both leverage and the use of securitization — which were part of what Canada did right. But such measures won’t matter unless they’re enforced by people who see it as their duty to say no to powerful bankers.

The History of US Policy on Study Abroad

Thanks to Beerken's Blog -- here's a link to a power point presentation by David Comp on the history -- and intent -- of US government programs to encourage study abroad.

As we scramble to meet student demand and plan for the future, it's helpful to reflect on the original purpose of supporting study abroad.  Historically, the US sees study abroad as a means to advance public diplomacy.

Student mobility can achieve much more.

Ireland: Public Service Unions Protest Government Cuts

Public service unions in Ireland's North and South are implementing work stoppages and protests over government decisions to cut services and reduce pay by as much as 15% for some members.

This is a fitting back drop for our study abroad course "Facing the future: Ireland's response to economic crisis".

Study Abroad Applications are up 41%

We've just completed study abroad registration at MU for Summer 2010, Fall 2010, and academic year 2010-11.  Final figures are pending, but so far, the number of participants at MU is up 41% over last year. 

Much of this growth is in faculty led short term Summer programs.

Serious Housing Surplus in Ireland

To follow up on recent posts on the Irish economy (here, here, and here, for example)...

A new report estimates there are up to 345,000 vacant housing units in the Republic of Ireland.  With a national population of 4.4 million, it will take a serious market correction to bring housing supply and demand back in line.

New Fund for UK-US University Partnerships

The British Council announces a new $500,000 fund to support more vibrant partnerships between UK and US universities.  The funds can be used to support collaborations in third countries, such as India or China.

See this link for the full report.

Opportunities in Indonesia

With thanks from Beerken's Blog, I note this article about emerging opportunities in Indonesia.

My trip to Panama

I just returned from my first trip to Panama.  I met some amazing people and discussed incredible opportunities for MU collaboration in research and instruction.  I will share more about these opportunities soon.


For now, I reflect on the skills, determination, ingenuity and sociability of the people we met.

The photo at right was taken of an exhibition at the Visitors Center for the Panama Canal.  I think it is a faithful representation of the people.

Ireland: Hotel Prices Down 21%

One of the courses I teach this summer explores the future of the Irish economy.  A sample of today's RTE headlines indicates the breath and depth of current economic difficulties.(See here, here, and here - for example.)

This story on falling prices for hotel rooms caught my attention.  It follows a previous report that estimates a surplus of 15,000 hotel rooms in the Irish market.  This is good news for Irish visitors...but it paints a pretty bleak picture of at least one key economic sector.

The 21st Century University...

My colleague Jason Kinnear recommends a recent book -- The 21st Century University: Developing Faculty Engagement in Internationalization.  When he makes a recommendation, I pay attention.

Irish Economic Boom is "Largely Wasted"

More background on prospects for the Irish Economy...

This research report concludes that the recent high income years in Ireland have been "largely wasted" on housing, commercial and retail construction.  As a consequence, investment in national infrastructure (hospitals, schools, transportation and telecommunication) is insufficient, and in need of careful attention.

Focusing public investment in education is seen as a key to Ireland's future.

OECD: Assessing Higher Ed Learning Outcomes

I've just returned from annual meetings of the Association for International Education Administration (AIEA).  This was a very good conference, with record attendance, and participants from twenty-seven countries.  One of the topics that captured attention was the OECD's recently launched global Assessment of Higher Education Learning Outcomes (AHELO).

As global competition in higher education heats up, and as calls for universities to be more accountable grow louder, AHELO deserves more attention.

For more background, see this recent post on GlobalHigherEd.

New Contest - to Transform Irish Economy

This summer I will lead a study abroad course on "Ireland facing the future".  The economic challenges before the Irish people are daunting.  In fact, President Mary McAleese just launched a competition called "Your Country, Your Call" that awards two significant cash prizes for ideas that could transform the Irish economy. 

The competition closes on April 30.

The Bologna Challenge

I've posted several times about the Bologna Process -- European higher education reform (for example, see here, here and here).

Today's Inside Higher Ed features Q and A with the author of a recent book, called The Challenge of Bologna.

This interview is quick -- and worth wide reading.

Major Cuts for UK Universities

I've been following the Guardian's coverage of major budget cuts ahead for UK universities.  If you're interested, this outlet is a handy source of news and opinion on global higher education.  If you're not, maybe you should be...

Twenty Years After Mandela's Release

Today marks the 20th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's release from prison -- a key milestone in the history of South Africa and in worldwide struggle for human rights.

We'll never be able to measure the effects of Mandela's leadership.  The New York Times published essays by seven political prisoners who pay him tribute. 

Take time to read these today in his honor.

To learn more about the man, read  A Long Walk to Freedom. 

Career Guidance: University Support for Researchers

The European University Association's Council for Doctoral Education are convening this workshop next month. 

With the knowledge that the doctorate is more than the entrance ticket to an academic career and that doctorate holders are increasingly needed in society, how do institutions set up structures that improve the awareness of the numerous career choices, how do they prepare doctoral candidates for a career outside academic research and – not least – how do they communicate the value of the doctorate to potential employees? 

Influence without Authority

I'm reading Influence without Authority (by Cohen and Bradford).  If you're working in a dynamic, highly decentralized, ambiguous environment (such as a large public university), I highly recommend this book.

New Deal in Northern Ireland

I'm preparing to lead a study abroad program in Ireland this summer, so I'm following current affairs pretty closely.

Today a key agreement was reached to transfer the authority for justice and policing from Westminster to the Northern Ireland Assembly.


For further information, see RTE news , the BBC , and this statement by US Secretary of State Clinton.  Also, check out the New York Times coverage, which includes a useful background video, reader comments, etc.

The focus of our summer study is on what Irish people (both North and South) are doing to face a very uncertain economic future.  Today's agreement will certainly be a part of our discussion.

Negotiating Climate: Lessons Learned from Copenhagen...

To follow up on recent posts (here and here)... A campus seminar -- scheduled for Friday, February 12.

Last December, MU Geography professors Mike Urban and Mark Cowell attended the United Nations climate change conference (COP15) in Copenhagen, Denmark as observers for the Association of American Geographers.

Drs. Urban and Cowell will share their observations of the meeting and discuss some of the issues related to science, advocacy, politics, diplomacy and economics that were central to the UN negotiation process.

Sponsored by:  the MU International Center; Department of Geography; College of Arts and Science; Department of Soil, Environmental and Atmospheric Sciences; School of Natural Resources; and the MU Transatlantic Center.

[download a pdf flyer for this event]

Bailouts Around the World - An Infograph

This is not directly related to international academic programs -

but I stumbled upon this post by MU Professor Peter Klein.

It's very interesting to compare the actions of the US with those taken in Ireland, Germany, France, and China - to name a few countries.

Fahrenheit 2010 - A Film about the World Cup in South Africa

Next week (Feb. 4-7) marks the 3rd annual Africa World Documentary Film Festival in St Louis, Missouri. One of the films I really look forward to is Fahrenheit 2010. This film takes a hard look at the complex effects the World Cup competition is having on the people of South Africa.

If you follow the World Cup, or if you want to learn about South Africa, this film is for you.

More Chinese Students in the US...

A recent survey of 6,000 middle school students in China's major cities finds a growing proportion of students want to pursue higher education abroad.

By a wide margin, the US remains the preferred destination.

For more information, see this brief summary.

When Awake, Young People are Online

Last week I saw this report in the New York Times.

The article focuses on an extensive new study sponsored by the Kaiser Foundation -- that shows young people (ages 8-18) spend nearly 8 hours a day with online media entertainment. Since they often manage multiple media at once, they cram in, on average, over 10 hours of media content per day.

We need to wrestle with these findings as we engage and support students learning across borders.

More on University Full Costing

In a recent post, I noted that the European University Association is leading an effort to assist universities in assessing and managing the full costs of proposed collaborations in research, instruction, economic development, etc.

I invest a good portion of my time each day consulting with MU academic units that are pursuing new international initiatives. Sometimes these proposals offer very enticing financial incentives to the academic units -- but they carry indirect or unanticipated costs to the university that add to our fiscal stress.

I'm convinced that with full-costing, we can make agreements that work better for all parties involved.

For more background on the EUA project, see this article.