International Research Collaborations: The Process and Its Benefits
With the increase in availability of social media and electronic communication mediums, it is now easier than ever to make contact and establish international research collaborations. There is a growing need to address issues related to the prevention, assessment, and intervention of communication impairments across culturally and linguistically diverse populations (Chiasson, 2007). This article provides a brief overview of the process of establishing and maintaining international research collaborations in the field of communication sciences and disorders. The article draws from personal experiences of the authors and survey-based responses from seven other professionals in the field who are actively involved in international collaborations. The authors address some common obstacles to international collaboration and provide insights to help make such relationships productive for all members. Finally, the authors provide a brief review of electronic communication mediums that can be used to increase efficiency and productivity of international collaborations.