Collaborative online international learning in undergraduate nursing education: from inspiration to impact

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) is an innovative teaching pedagogy involving faculty collaboration and student co-learning across global partner schools. Guided by the cross-cultural alignment model, the purpose of this educational research project was to analyze the impact of COIL on the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of nursing students in two global partner schools and to determine if groups of students were impacted differently. Methods Students engaged in synchronous and asynchronous learning sessions using a secure digital platform over several weeks. Data was gathered from students using an optional, anonymous, online, retrospective pre-posttest survey. Results COIL enhances student understanding of key global nursing concepts and culturally responsive care. Differences across schools were observed. Conclusions COIL is a feasible and cost-effective way to integrate global education into the curriculum of undergraduate nursing education. Recommendations for future COIL experiences are made.