Digital transformation of ir and un studies: Case study on youth engagement in model un new silk way

Abstract

The quality of teaching international relations (IR) and UN studies depends on many factors, including the anchorage and localization of educational materials through practical exercises and extracurricular activities. In this regard, Model United Nations (Model UN) programs have proven to be one of the most effective activities, inculcating youth with necessary practical skills and competencies, especially soft skills in negotiating, debating, consensus seeking, and gender and multicultural sensitivity. However, over the past few years Model UN programs have been facing challenges in developing and expanding their engagement with young people due to the need to adapt the programs to new realities including the internationalization of higher education institutions (HEIs) and the COVID-19 restrictions and closures. A key tool in introducing necessary changes and responses to the challenges is digital transformation through the incorporation of information communication technologies (ICT), digital online learning (DOL), social media, and enhancing essential digital skills. The purpose of this article is to analyze how digital transformation impacts teaching IR and UN studies in general, and implementing Model UN programs in particular. First, it introduces the framework of this research project. Second, it discusses the educational context of developing IR and UN studies and the recent growth and expansion of Model UN programs. Third, it provides a short literature review on the empirical and theoretical aspects of digital transformation. Fourth, it presents the case study of the impact of digital transformation especially of the use of ICT on the Model UN New Silk Way over the past 10 years. The conclusion summarizes the findings of this research and discusses some implications for educational process and practices in IR and UN studies, and for the internationalization of higher education.