Jeff Thompson

Bio: Jeff Thompson is an academic researcher from University of Bath. The author has contributed to research in topics: International education & Comparative education. The author has an hindex of 19, co-authored 49 publications receiving 1702 citations.

Belonging, Identity and Third Culture Kids: Life Histories of former International School Students

Abstract: This article is based on a multiple case study which examines the lives of a group of 11 former international school students who all attended an international school between 20 and 50 years ago. T...

Internationalism and globalization as contexts for international education

Abstract: A problem with the construction of an inclusive definition of international education is that the word ‘international’ has a variety of connotations. It is proposed that the term ‘international education’ is ambiguous because it appears to refer to contrasting usages in educational studies. International education is frequently discussed in the context of the related field of comparative education, but a different sense of the term has also developed in the context of the theory and practice of education in international schools and other institutions. This paper compares and contrasts the different usages of the term ‘international education’. It also discusses internationalism and globalization as contexts for international education, as practised in international schools and other institutions, particularly with reference to the history and programmes of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).

International Schools and International Education: a relationship reviewed

Abstract: Although used currently in common educational parlance, the term ‘international education’ is neither particularly extensively documented, nor well‐defined. The history of international education as a formal area of study within the wider educational sphere is a recently short one and the evolution of the concept is consequently at a relatively early stage. Similarly, the concept of the ‘international school’ is one which has developed rapidly over the past 40 years and is still relatively thinly researched. This paper summarises some of the most significant literature sources in relation to the development of our current understanding of international schools and international education and documents a range of interpretations which arise in the process. The notion that the term ‘international education’ is concomitant with the term ‘international school’ is challenged as an assumption, by examining the concept of what it means to be ‘international’ and its application both to the school as an i...

International Schools and International Education : Improving Teaching, Management and Quality

Abstract: Quality in the curriculum the concept of quality for international schools (IS) inclusive education in IS the interstitial curriculum assessment approaches for IS student mobility in the international curriculum recruitment of teachers in IS continuing professional development issues supporting IS teachers in national schools long-term planning and management issues models of management and organization the role of women in senior management school effectiveness and school improvement international schools and local communities national schools and international education institutional accreditation regional approaches to IS accreditation.

Being International: Student and teacher perceptions from international schools

Abstract: The past fifty years have witnessed a rapid rise in the numbers of globally mobile professional people whose children accompany them to a variety of postings worldwide, enrolling in what are often referred to as international schools and experiencing what may be referred to as an international education. Such children can be characterised as being 'international' in some way, and claims are often made for the nature of their educational experiences in terms of its international characteristics. What is less clear is what the description 'international' actually means when applied to such young people. This article describes a piece of research which attempted to begin to answer this question by seeking the views of over 200 teachers and more than 1,200 18-year-old students based in such schools worldwide. Characteristics considered included international-mindedness, open-mindedness, second language competence, flexibility of thinking, tolerance and respect for others, and comparisons have been made betwee...

The Lexus and the Olive Tree

Abstract: (2000). The Lexus and the Olive Tree. Journal of Economic Issues: Vol. 34, No. 1, pp. 232-234.

Higher Education in Turmoil: The Changing World of Internationalization

Abstract: Internationalization is a pervasive force shaping and challenging higher education as it faces the new realities and turbulence of globalization. In a thoughtful and provocative way, this book provides a critical perspective on the rationales, benefi ts, risks, strategies, and outcomes of internationalization. A look at the diversity of approaches to internationalization across institutions and countries around the world emphasizes that “one size does not fi t all” when it comes to integrating international and intercultural dimensions into the teaching, learning, research, and service functions of higher education. This book will help academic leaders, policy makers, and international education professionals understand the increasing complexities of internationalization and the current controversial issues related to quality assurance, accreditation, trade agreements, commercialization, competitiveness, research, cultural homogenization, and regionalization.