Trajectories for Creating a Dictionary for International Students

What is it about?

This study maps research trajectories in defining key terms related to international students, aiming to build a multilingual dictionary. Analyzing a specialized corpus of over 300 texts on international student mobility (ISM), we examined the frequent terms "ISM" and "international student(s)," revealing inconsistencies in their definitions. Using a systematic selection process, we ensured relevance and diversity in our dataset. Findings highlight the overlooked need for precise, context-driven terminology, calling for neology in this field. This study represents the Cinderella of research on international students and the internationalization of education.

Featured Image

Photo by Christopher Burns on Unsplash

Photo by Christopher Burns on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This study underscores the critical need for clear and context-aware terminology in discussions on international student mobility (ISM). Current literature lacks consistent definitions, leading to gaps in data reliability and research validity. By systematically analyzing ISM-related texts, this research highlights the vitality of effective communication through precise wording, ensuring that terms align with intended aims and audiences. Moreover, this study addresses an overlooked research gap, demonstrating that many existing works lack empirical data directly from international students. By incorporating real-world insights, it lays the foundation for a more accountable and methodologically sound approach to defining ISM-related terms.

Perspectives