Internationalization at home and sociocultural projects: a diagnostic study at the University of Matanzas

Abstract

Objective: To characterize the current state of internationalization at home in the development of sociocultural University Extension projects at the University of Matanzas, Cuba.

Methods: Using a qualitative approach, empirical methods such as documentary analysis, surveys, interviews, participant observation, and focus groups were used to identify difficulties and identify opportunities for improvement at the educational institution, based on the dimensions, indicators, and measurement descriptors determined. Results: These results reveal a contradiction between the institutional authorities' recognition of internationalization as a strategic process and the implementation of its modalities at the University of Matanzas. Internationalization at home is recognized in institutional discourse, but its integration into sociocultural projects is insufficient, which constitutes a barrier to the development of international and intercultural competencies and the visualization of the sociocultural project as a training scenario in Cuban Higher Education. Conclusions: The diagnosis conducted recognizes practices in the development of sociocultural University Extension projects with an intercultural focus that can contribute to the comprehensive development of professionals. The lack of planning, formative assessment, and academic recognition confirms the need for more integrated educational management to implement internationalization at home in the development of these projects.