PEC-PLE como instrumento de internacionalização na UFAM

Abstract

This study presents the Portuguese as a Foreign Language Exchange Student Program (PEC-PLE) as an instrument of internationalization at the Federal University of Amazonas (UFAM). The program welcomes international students seeking the opportunity to pursue undergraduate studies at the institution by providing support for learning the Portuguese language. The search for undergraduate educational opportunities has attracted students from different countries, contributing to intercultural integration and strengthening the internationalization process within both the university and the broader social context, while also promoting academic learning and professional qualification for participants. This study also provides a historical overview of PEC-PLE in Brazil and at the Federal University of Amazonas, discussing concepts related to internationalization and language policies, as well as the methodological aspects of the research based on the data collected and the experiences developed within the institution. Particular emphasis is given to Portuguese language teaching as preparation for the Certificate of Proficiency in Portuguese for Foreigners (CELPE-Bras) examination, whose successful completion enables international students to secure admission to the university. The data analysis considers quantitative information regarding the students enrolled in the program, their countries of origin, and the languages represented in the academic environment, relating these elements to the participants' experiences and to the university's internationalization process, as well as to the benefits resulting from this process.