4 Step 1: Consider Virtual Exchange & course learning outcomes
Before you connect with another institution, it is important to first consider ways in which your learning outcomes and course content could integrate with a course at another institution. Note that depending on your and your partner’s objectives for this Virtual Exchange, the subject matter and learning outcomes of your two courses need not be entirely the same. This crucial step will help you evaluate whether and/or how your course can be adapted for a Virtual Exchange.
Bearing in mind a focus on intercultural awareness and communication skills is viewed as an integral component to a Virtual Exchange, you should consider learning outcomes and elements of assignments that focus explicitly on student reflection around these skills and experiences.
While you may be intrigued by Virtual Exchanges in principle, it may not always be obvious which specific qualities or aspects of a course would be a good fit. To assist with this process, we have listed some questions and considerations below as a guide to prompt your thought process:
Questions and Considerations
1. Which components or sections of your course could be enhanced through an intercultural/inter-institutional collaboration?
2. How might your existing learning outcomes for the course be improved and/or adapted through a Virtual Exchange? How will you integrate the modified or additional learning outcomes into your existing course outline? Will your anticipated timeframe allow for these modifications?
3. Are there any current course learning outcomes that you will not be able to cover or will somehow be impacted should you decide to engage in a Virtual Exchange? If so, will the benefits outweigh the costs?
4. How might students perceive the Virtual Exchange within the course context? What might you do to promote or help students recognize the benefits?
5. What interactive intercultural activities, approaches, or assignments might help facilitate this initiative and how will your student benefit from these?
6. What elements of the Virtual Exchange could be synchronous or asynchronous? How will these elements impact the student experience and course learning outcomes?