Implementing experience of double degree programs through distance technologies in the context of internationalization of higher education

The paper describes the experience of implementing the program of double diplomas through distance learning technologies realized jointly by Saratov Socio-Economic Institute (branch) of the Plekhanov Russian University of Economics and the University of Pierre Mendes France, located in Grenoble, France, as a form of internationalization of higher education. Theoretical part of the paper consists of analyzing the current trends of transformation of higher education, such as globalization and internationalization, massification and economization, continuity and technologisation. The main directions of internationalization of higher education from the point of view of given trends are determined. In practical part of the paper we describe the specific experience of two partner-universities, Russian and French, highlighting the process of integration in such trends and directions of internationalization through the implementation of the program of double diplomas, which feature is the extensive use of distance learning technologies. The specifics of the organization of the program, the peculiarities of distance learning technologies on platform Moodle with its autonomous and interactive work are analyzed. Technology and organization of its management through the coordination by partner universities are highlighted in the paper. On the basis of a three-year experience in the implementation of the program the main problems are identified - a significant increase of student workload while parallel training in two high educational institutions and poor foreign language competence of Russian students for the full perception of distance training material. Nevertheless, a positive assessment of the experience of double degree programs in the context of the internationalization of higher education is definitely given.

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