20 Final thoughts & remarks

We would like to acknowledge that the aim of this guide is not to promote Virtual Exchanges as a replacement for study abroad experiences. Instead, Virtual Exchanges are posed as a broadly accessible, inexpensive form of global learning that provides opportunities for cross-cultural interaction for more students. Additionally, Virtual Exchanges may also serve as a prelude to study-abroad programs, which may provide students with essential exposure to a different culture. This may reduce some of the fears of culture shock that prevent students from engaging in a study abroad opportunity altogether or engaging in a country that has a different linguacultural background from their own.

That is it! You are ready to embark on your own Virtual Exchange journey. We hope our step-by-step guide provides a helpful overview of the considerations and steps you might take as you engage in your own Virtual Exchange collaboration. As you engage in your own journey, you may encounter other helpful resources or challenges. If so, we would love to hear from you and update this guide.