Development of sustainable collaborative online international learning (coil) in nurse education: A qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction: In “Collaborative Online International Learning” (COIL) teachers/facilitators and students are expected to develop international awareness through dialogue with international peers. COIL´s potential for the development of global perspectives on professional themes without traveling abroad is unique.

Objective: To identify obstacles and success criteria experienced during the development of a COIL module in nurse education.

Methods: A qualitative study was developed with participants of a COIL module. Interviews with 11 students and 8 facilitators were included. The content analysis was performed on the data as a whole.

Results: Four common categories emerged across students´ and teachers´ perspectives: positive experience; experienced difficulties; skills developed; and COIL suggestions. Additionally, opportunities provided by COIL were specific for teachers, and strategies used for the difficulties experienced were specific for students.

Conclusion: COIL should be carefully planned and regulated like all programming of curricular activities. Different curricula, time zones, and schedules across education programs in different countries must be considered.