Virtual collaboration reimagined

How can students be empowered to develop intercultural skills and build global networks? This question was the focus of the INUAS COIL Days, which took place in Vienna in early June 2024. Lecturers from all over the world exchanged views on what is known as Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) – an approach in which students tackle tasks across national borders and acquire methodological abilities and cultural understanding.

The importance of developing
global competence There was a consensus that the education and support of students must also include the development of international competences in order for them to succeed in a globalised world of work. Discussions therefore centred on the potential of virtual exchange as a pedagogical approach and how this can be strategically integrated into higher education curricula.

Practically-oriented project presentations from the HM perspective A total of 10 lecturers and staff members from HM took part
in the conference. Among them was Nicholas Sinn, who, in his workshop ‘Practical Insights into COIL projects’, offered practical insights into the challenges and benefits of virtual exchange formats from the HM perspective. The exchange of experiences regarding previous projects gave participants insights into the development of sustainable COIL initiatives that align with global education goals, as well as the changes that may be necessary to efficiently realise and implement virtual exchange formats.


Constance Schölch