Intercultural communication in COIL projects

Amirov B. Intercultural communication in COIL projects : bachelor's thesis : 035 Philology / supervised by O. Yashenkova. Kyiv, 2025. 62 p.

As globalization and the digital transformation of education continue to accelerate, the integration of intercultural communication into the educational process has become increasingly essential. Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) projects enable students from diverse backgrounds to connect in real time, exchange ideas, and co-create knowledge, all without the need for physical mobility. This approach is particularly relevant, as it helps students develop key competencies such as global awareness, digital literacy, communication skills, and adaptability, which are increasingly vital in today’s job market.
This study examines the role of intercultural communication in shaping team dynamics and learning outcomes within COIL projects. It is based on the author’s participation in two international COIL collaborations conducted in 2024: “Tackling Challenges through Interdisciplinary Solutions” (in partnership with The Hague University of Applied Sciences, the Netherlands) and “Discovering Shared Heritage Narratives” (with Erasmus Brussels University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Belgium). The research investigates how intercultural interaction affects team collaboration, student engagement, and learning outcomes in COIL environments.
The study applies qualitative and reflective methods, including participant observation, analysis of digital communication records such as group chats and collaborative documents, and self-assessment. It is grounded in educational theory and scholarly literature on virtual exchange and intercultural competency.
The findings highlight the importance of accessible digital tools, intercultural sensitivity, flexible team structures, and active instructor involvement in facilitating communication. Based on these insights, the study provides practical recommendations for improving the design and implementation of COIL projects.