GLOBAL CLASSES: PROFILE AND PERSPECTIVE OF FOUNDERS/ADMINISTRATORS AT PUCPR’S INTERNALIZATION PROGRAM

INTRODUCTION: One of the consequences of globalization has been the internationalization of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Implementing an internationalization program attracts foreign teachers and students, stimulates students’ academic and professional growth and improves the university’s position in world rankings. In addition, these programs require a qualified administrative team that is aligned with the goals and objectives of the university itself, including official documents that record and organize the entire process. The Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR) was one of the first Brazilian HEIs to invest in internationalization, and for this reason (as well as others) it has established itself on the world stage. It is currently one of the best-placed Brazilian universities in world rankings. The Global Classes program is PUCPR’s bet for internationalization at home, through EMI (English as a Medium of Instruction). AIMS: The aim of this research is to find out whether the administrative team involved in the university’s internationalization process is aligned with the purpose of Global Classes and how the program is currently working. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To this end, data was collected from January to June 2024 using an online questionnaire, studying official university documents and reading the literature on the subject. RESULTS: Despite the low level of adherence to the form, it was possible to observe the profile of the administrative sector and their perceptions of the program through the responses obtained. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: The optimism of the administrative team regarding the program and its success can be seen, which resulted in Global Classes being institutionalized as an internationalization program for the multiversity.

KEYWORDS: 1. Internationalization; 2. Administrative staff; 3. Global Classes; 4. PUCPR; 5. EMI.