What is Virtual Exchange – COIL?

Virtual Exchange, also known as Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), is a learning approach that brings faculty and students together through online technology across countries to engage in a component of their course. These exchanges promote intercultural dialogue and collaborative learning through joint assignments, peer-to-peer interaction, and critical reflection.

Faculty who would like to receive VE-COIL updates on new opportunities or share past experiences are also invited to complete a short  VE-COIL Interest Form.

Program Structure

Collaborative Course Design: Faculty partners co-create a shared module that aligns with each course’s goals and disciplinary content.

• Intercultural Framework: Students engage in sustained, facilitated interaction that encourages dialogue, diverse perspectives, and global awareness.
• Joint Projects: Students work in cross-cultural teams on shared assignments or projects.
• Reflective Practice: Faculty and students integrate opportunities for critical reflection on the learning experience.

Useful Tips for a Successful COIL Collaboration:

• Tip 1. Identify a good collaborative match and explore interdisciplinary areas of focus.
• Tip 2. Meet and prepare a calendar of activities with objectives, deadlines and measurable outcomes for every phase of the VE-COIL model.
• Tip 3. Identify technologies that are available to all and are useful to facilitate interactions.
• Tip 4. Incorporate intercultural activities throughout the program to ensure equitable and positive student engagement.
• Tip 5. Share your plans and results with IGE Assistant Director, Alia Gilbrecht-Hindi, to get feedback and recognition.

Why Participate?

VE-COIL enhances students’ global competencies and their ability to work effectively in virtual teams—an increasingly essential skill in today’s interconnected world. It expands access to meaningful international experiences, particularly for students who may not have the opportunity to participate in traditional study abroad programs. When thoughtfully designed, VE-COIL can offer a transformative, interpersonal learning experience.

Contact

If you are interested in exploring how to integrate Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) into your course,  please contact Alia Gilbrecht-Hindi, Assistant Director, University Partnerships (agilbrecht@uh.edu or 713.743.0317).