Models of Internationalization of Higher Education in Developing Countries—A Perspective of International Research Collaboration in BRICS Countries

Models of Internationalization of Higher Education in Developing Countries—A Perspective of International Research Collaboration in BRICS Countries
Authors: Xiaojie Fan, Hong Liu, Yang Wang, Yawen Wan, Duanhong Zhang
Journal: Sustainability
Volume & Issue: Volume 14, Issue 20
Published: 21 October 2022

This study examines international research collaboration in leading universities of BRICS countries over 2012–2021, focusing on research scale, quantity, impact, collaborative networks, and subject areas. Using the Scopus database, the study highlights how BRICS nations have increased their international collaborative publications, with China and India showing rapid improvements in research quality and impact. Brazil, Russia, and South Africa are progressing, but their research quality remains limited or declining globally.

The research identifies that geopolitical factors, disciplinary strengths, and technological development shape the paths of international collaboration. BRICS universities are increasingly integrating into global scientific networks, enhancing academic output, quality, and international influence. Top universities drive national academic competitiveness through strategic international partnerships.

The study concludes that BRICS countries are establishing distinctive academic and scientific development paths, challenging Euro-American dominance in global science. The findings also highlight the need for policies that support international collaboration and academic modernization. Limitations include reliance on descriptive statistics and bibliometric measures; future studies should explore political, economic, historical, linguistic, and cultural factors affecting academic collaboration in emerging countries.