Tools of Engagement: Using Outbound Mobility to Grow Australia’s Asia Literacy

Abstract

Moving deeper into the Asian Century, there is an ever-increasing need for Asia literacy and Asia capability in the workforce. Successive Australian governments have stressed the need for greater engagement with the region and the development of intercultural competency. Meanwhile, universities have stressed the need to internationalize their curriculums in order to produce outward-looking graduates with a global perspective. This chapter argues that outbound mobility experiences are the key to fulfilling both goals. Although the benefits of student mobility are well known, there are several barriers to participation. These must be addressed if outbound mobility is to become a mainstream aspect of the student experience in the Asian Century.