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Virtual Exchange

Virtual Exchange is a sustainable, inclusive form of international mobility, which offers an opportunity for intercultural and global learning without the need for travel. Technology-enabled interaction, supported by educators, enable students to develop their global understanding, digital literacy, communication skills, and intercultural competences.

Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) is a model of curriculum embedded virtual exchange. COIL projects allow students to develop a global outlook on their academic discipline through collaboration with peers from international partner universities. Academic colleagues can also benefit from interaction with international colleagues. Collaborations can lead to new perspectives on pedagogical approaches and joint research opportunities.

Shorter, co-curricular virtual engagements can also be very beneficial to students, offering new perspectives and an introduction to digital technologies.

FROM NEWCASTLE. FOR THE WORLD

Virtual exchange at Newcastle University

Newcastle University is committed to supporting colleagues in setting up a virtual exchange or engagement activity. Virtual engagements across the University varies, from student led discussion series, global business challenges, and research poster competitions. All of which offer students an opportunity to engage with international peers on themes of social justice, sustainability and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

Accessing Resources

The International Office can signpost you to resources and colleagues with experience of developing virtual exchange. We may also be able to assist with sourcing international partners.

You can also request to join the NU Virtual Exchange Community MS Teams group and connect with colleagues engaged in this area and find useful resources, including a mapping of virtual exchange and engagement projects across the University.

For further information or support contact global.opportunities@newcastle.ac.uk.