Using Structural Equation Model (SEM) to analyse global student mobility programs in higher education in India.

Abstract India, the acknowledged crown jewel of international strategy for higher education institutions, has a vision to adopt best transnational education (TNE) practices and robust frameworks that make it a hub of quality education with brain circulation rather than brain drain. There are many questions and concerns amidst the changing scenario brought about by National Education Policy (NEP), and the higher education sector is actively reviewing its plans to include international student mobility programs in their portfolio. A nation that has thought itself to be proudly self-sufficient with the premier Indian Institutes of Technology & Management, is now brainstorming how the world has been driving international student mobility with tangible & effective outcomes across all parameters of excellence. This study focuses on effective strategies and concerns for short term international student mobility within Internationalization of higher education in India, by using a structural equation modelling (SEM) method to determine the effect of institutional intervention between push, pull and fulfilment factors. A questionnaire was self-designed and administered to a group of Indian students who had undertaken a 5-week study abroad program to London, customized by their higher education institution. Reliability, factor, and SEM analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS and AMOS (Analysis of Moment Structure). The findings highlight the importance of having structured institutional policies & best practices that promote internationalization at home & abroad. The results are important for Indian Higher Education Institutions aspiring for understanding and applying suitable strategies for effective global positioning & outreach.