Toward a More Inclusive Conceptualization of Internationalization of Higher Education : The Chinese Students’ Perspectives

Although Knight’s (J Stud High Educ 8(1):5–31, 2004) definition of internationalization is widely cited, it is often criticized as western-centered and may not be suitable for non-western contexts. This study explores the perspectives and critical reflections on the concept of internationalization of Chinese graduate students at a Hong Kong university. Findings highlight the differences in the ideas and practices of higher education internationalization between western and non-western countries, as well as the challenges brought about by the COVID- 19 pandemic and changing geopolitics. This study provides insights on how Chinese students - as stakeholders, education researchers, and future professionals - make sense of the internationalization and reflect on the future of internationalization.