One would think that international education can only become popular as the world grows smaller and globalization becomes the norm. However, the truth is that international education is nowhere near the top priority list as far as parents and students are concerned.
For starters, the concept of international education is away and unclear one. Does it mean education that helps you qualify for international level assignments? Or is it something that will help you understand international culture, problems and issues better?
If you are studying to become a better government servant in your own country, what is the point of knowing more about international culture? Yes, it is possible that knowledge of international issues may help you become a better government servant. However, the link is very vague and tenuous one and, not surprisingly, is not very popular.
The misfit between international education and the ultimate goal of education-a good job and a good life is the primary reason why it is not very popular. Many persons have discovered that combining traditional education with smart use of the internet to know more about the world helps them gain more knowledge better.
If the end result of international education can be replicated by simply spending a few hours on the internet on a daily basis, can one really complain that the concept of international education is not taken seriously?
The absence of an international organization that governs this form of education also makes a huge difference. People look for authenticity and continuity in the education sector. There are numerous organizations that deal in education on international level but there is no organization that can claim to be the biggest and the most authentic of them all.
One reason for this misfit is the absence of government recognition. Education is something that the government of each and every nation is involved in. The governments are yet to agree to a framework where the concept of education on a global level is regulated in a uniform and planned manner.