Stage 1 – Preparing and Partner-Finding

This stage is where you assess your readiness and reasons to engage in a Virtual Exchange and begin the initial stage of international engagement: identifying a partner. Preparatory work consists of considering reasons you are interested in a Virtual Exchange for your course, and the boundaries of your collaboration in terms of learning outcomes and logistics – with the understanding that some degree of compromise is likely as you initially connect with a partner. The only piece that should be firmed at this stage is approval (if needed) from your internal department/program/faculty for your class to be involved in a Virtual Exchange. If this is a necessary step for you, we suggest undertaking this as early as possible in order to meet institutional timelines (e.g., course description changes) and to ensure you have enough time to find a suitable partner.