International Educator

Traditionally found in postsecondary institutions, international educators work both inside and outside of schools to advance the international dimensions of education through teaching, research, service, and outreach. More recently, this role has migrated to online environments and includes responsibilities such as:

Responsibilities

Although job titles can vary, international educators working in online environments may take on the following responsibilities:

• Develop and teach online courses on topics such as global politics, global strategy, and international business on global citizenship, international development, and cross-cultural communication.
• Collaborate with faculty from other disciplines to develop international programs and initiatives.
• Advise students on international study and career opportunities.
• Conduct research on international education trends and best practices.
• Provide professional development for faculty and staff on international education.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with international organizations and institutions.
• Represent their institution at international conferences and events.

International educators working in international studies and related fields have long relied on online courses to bolster their expertise in the field. Online courses afford this sector of educators the opportunity to engage in the work of international education which includes:

• Teaching online courses on topics such as global politics, global strategy, and international business.
• Collaborating with faculty from other disciplines to develop international programs and initiatives.
• Advising students on international study and career opportunities.
• Conducting research on international education trends and best practices.
• Providing professional development for faculty and staff on international education.
• Developing and maintaining partnerships with international organizations and institutions.
• Representing their institution at international conferences and events.

Education

For those interested in teaching international education online, most employers require at least a master's degree in international education, comparative education, or a related field. Some institutions may consider candidates with a bachelor's degree and relevant experience in international education. Applicants must also possess a solid understanding of online learning pedagogy and the ability to develop and deliver engaging online courses.

Skills

To become an effective online international educator, the following skills are very helpful:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Fluency in at least one foreign language.
• Experience living and working in a foreign country.
• Knowledge of online learning pedagogy.
• Strong research skills.
• Ability to develop and deliver engaging online courses.

Career Advancement

With experience and additional education, there are many career advancement opportunities for effective international educators. These may include:

• Promotion to a leadership position in international education.
• Appointment to a faculty position at a university or college.
• Work as a consultant for international organizations and institutions.
• Start your own international education business.

Getting Started

There are a number of steps you can take to get started in a career as an online international educator.

• Earn a master's degree in international education, comparative education, or a related field.
• Gain experience working in international education, either in a traditional or online setting.
• Develop a strong understanding of online learning pedagogy.
• Create a portfolio of your work, including sample online courses and lesson plans.
• Network with other international educators.
• Apply for jobs in international education.

Conclusion

Whether based within a traditional academic institution or offered through online course delivery, international education offers a rewarding career path. The demand for qualified online educators is growing, and there are many opportunities for career advancement. Likewise, the flexibility afforded by online instruction has created greater opportunities for life-long learners to develop expertise in this domain.