The 2nd International Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) Conference, which took place at San Pedro College on 07-08 March 2024, provided a platform to delve into the evolving trends of COIL. Representing Ateneo de Davao University, Ms. Fatima Jennae Jereza, Assistant Director of the Ateneo Internationalization for Mindanao Office and the University’s COIL Coordinator, participated in the event. With the theme “We Demand Forward-Thinking, Attainable, Sustainable, Humane, and Innovative Options Now,” attendees explored various facets of COIL, ranging from its historical journey to its future outlook.
The conference kicked off with a keynote address by Atty. Lily Freida Milla, Deputy Executive Director and Director III of International Affairs at the Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED). She highlighted CHED’s commitment to investing in COIL and expressed their hope to encourage more Philippine institutions to embrace the values and potentials of COIL. Atty. Milla mentioned the goal of developing a COIL manual and aligning COIL with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. According to her, the aim is to bridge the gap between theory and practice in COIL initiatives.
The conference also welcomed distinguished speakers and pioneers in the field of COIL. Dr. Hope Windle, Director of the SUNY COIL Center, USA, kicked off the proceedings by tracing COIL’s evolution, highlighting its transition from a grassroots initiative among professors to a pivotal educational tool. Emphasizing the integration of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the adaptation of COIL in diverse educational settings, Dr. Windle shed light on its transformative potential, especially amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. As COIL ventures into its fourth wave, marked by an emphasis on non-routine, value-driven work, and the incorporation of AI and augmented reality, it promises to revolutionize global education.
In the session titled “COIL Ripple Effects to Education,” Dr. Stephanie Doscher, Director of Florida International University’s Office of Collaborative Online International Learning, underscored the profound impact of COIL on education. Through compelling anecdotes and insightful observations, Dr. Doscher highlighted how COIL fosters international collaborations, enhances professional development opportunities, and promotes community engagement initiatives. Stressing the importance of transcending national boundaries in global learning, she advocated for wider adoption of COIL among educators and institutions worldwide.
A key highlight of the conference was the Book Launching and Talk on COIL Connect by Dr. Jon Rubin, Director of Collaborative Online International Learning at Connect for Virtual Exchange. Dr. Rubin unveiled COIL Connect—a platform designed to facilitate COIL collaborations and foster interdisciplinary exchanges. By democratizing access to COIL resources and empowering student-driven initiatives, COIL Connect aims to catalyze innovation and inclusivity in global education. As COIL continues to evolve, platforms like COIL Connect are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping its future trajectory.
The 2nd COIL Conference underscored the growing significance of collaborative online learning in an interconnected world. By embracing forward-thinking, sustainable, and humane approaches, COIL holds the potential to redefine education and empower students as global citizens. As we embark on this transformative journey, let us embrace innovation and solidarity, ensuring that COIL remains at the forefront of twenty-first-century education.
Published on