A critical discussion of the impact of internationalization on Ontario colleges

Abstract

Internationalization of Ontario colleges is a strategic mandate dictated from both the federal and provincial governments to address declining domestic enrollment, labour market shortages, and the evolving needs of 21st century post-secondary students. The growth in numbers of international students in Ontario colleges has been particularly rapid over the past five years, and existing literature on internationalization and Ontario colleges was limited. While there are existing literature reviews consolidating literature on internationalization and higher education, none are focused on Canadian higher education, let alone Ontario colleges. Inclusion criteria were developed to prioritize literature that was most pertinent to the policy environment Ontario colleges operate in while also including work from countries with cultural similarities to Ontario. The results of this wide-ranging analysis of internationalization in the Ontario College system indicate a probable need for additional research, funding, training, and policy changes to ensure a sustainable future.