ABSTRACT

International collaboration is a fundamental part of scholarly development. This has become particularly true with the advent of globalization, which has accelerated the scope, rate, and importance of international, collaborative, cross-national, and cross-cultural research. It is essential that researchers combine resources and expertise on an international scale to adequately address complex and interconnected global issues. The term 'partnership' can be used interchangeably to describe a variety of different collaborative activities such 'collaboration' or 'shared' projects. Challenges arise when there are differing expectations between the foreign researchers, funders, and the global partners. Full engagement of local partners and stakeholders, and clear communication between partners, are crucial elements in overcoming these tensions and challenges. It is important to attend to certain practicalities before conducting international research. Gaining access into a country and a community is the first step in conducting international research.