Competency-Based Training Program for International Students

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a training program for developing the self-discovery and self-regulation competencies of international students. The paper combines literature review from global leadership, international education and related disciplines to advance a competency-based program that addresses a critical need for greater integration and retention of international students in their host countries. Research evidence from the literature review further suggested that key competencies such as self-awareness and self-regulation are critical for enabling the development of culturally intelligent behaviours. The program therefore introduces an initial phase of experiential learning activities in mindfulness and sense-making to foster the development of the foundational competence self-discovery. In addition, a second phase of entrepreneurial projects is designed to support individual growth in three self-regulation competencies: psychological flexibility, human sustainability and entrepreneurial thinking. The importance of this training program for the effective social integration and long-term retention of international students is discussed. Opportunities for future research are also outlined in the concluding section.