5:15 PM - 7:15 PM
[U08-P08] Creating a Space to Overcome Cultural and Language Barriers in Education Through COIL: A Case Study of Collaboration Between Waseda University and Salem State University
★Invited Papers
Keywords:Education, Collaborative Online International Learning, cross-cultural collaboration, language barriers, internationalization, interdisciplinary learning
In an increasingly globalized world, fostering cross-cultural collaboration is essential for students to develop a global perspective and thrive in international environments. This case study examines a Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program conducted between Waseda University (Japan) and Salem State University (USA) to analyze how language and cultural differences shape learning experiences in international education. The course, “Promoting Cultural Understanding Amongst US and Japanese Students through COIL,” was designed to enhance intercultural understanding and communication through structured online discussions.
Participating students engaged in activities such as analyzing the cultural impact on education, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of different educational systems, and proposing strategies to integrate cross-cultural perspectives into learning environments. A qualitative analysis of student reflections revealed that while initial language barriers posed challenges, peer discussions significantly enhanced their confidence in intercultural communication. Additionally, students gained deeper insights into how educational systems, classroom dynamics, and social perspectives influence learning experiences in different countries. Many students also expressed increased motivation to pursue further international academic and professional opportunities similar to the COIL.
This presentation highlights key findings from the COIL course and examines the organizational strategies that contributed to its success. Specifically, we will discuss the importance of preparatory sessions, structured discussions, and active facilitation in creating an open space to help students overcome cultural and linguistic barriers. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on advancing education through virtual international collaboration, aiming to build a more inclusive and globally competent learning community.
Participating students engaged in activities such as analyzing the cultural impact on education, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of different educational systems, and proposing strategies to integrate cross-cultural perspectives into learning environments. A qualitative analysis of student reflections revealed that while initial language barriers posed challenges, peer discussions significantly enhanced their confidence in intercultural communication. Additionally, students gained deeper insights into how educational systems, classroom dynamics, and social perspectives influence learning experiences in different countries. Many students also expressed increased motivation to pursue further international academic and professional opportunities similar to the COIL.
This presentation highlights key findings from the COIL course and examines the organizational strategies that contributed to its success. Specifically, we will discuss the importance of preparatory sessions, structured discussions, and active facilitation in creating an open space to help students overcome cultural and linguistic barriers. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on advancing education through virtual international collaboration, aiming to build a more inclusive and globally competent learning community.