Expanding Horizons: Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv and Spain’s Jaume I University Enhance Intercultural Learning through COIL Program

“In a remarkable display of international academic collaboration, Institute of Philology of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv has once again partnered with Jaume I University in Castellon, Spain, to offer an immersive online study experience. Known as COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning), this program first saw participation from Ukrainian students in November 2022. Building on last year’s success, the university is set to continue this enriching educational journey in 2023”, says Victoria Drobotun, Assistant Professor at the Department of Methodology of Teaching Ukrainian and Foreign Languages and Literatures at the Institute of Philology of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.

This year, the program has engaged the 3rd year students from the Department of Methodology of Teaching Ukrainian and Foreign Languages and Literatures, along with 2nd year students from the Department of Foreign Literature. The focus will be on the discipline “The English language in Intercultural Communication,” highlighting the importance of language as a bridge between cultures.

The COIL program run a series of online sessions from November 6th to December 3rd, 2023. These sessions were designed to offer students a unique blend of language learning and cultural exchange, fostering an environment of international understanding and cooperation.

The continuation of the COIL program reflects a growing trend in international education, where technology bridges geographical divides, allowing for a seamless exchange of knowledge and ideas. This collaboration not only enriches the academic experience of the students involved but also strengthens the ties between Ukraine and Spain, showcasing the power of education in building global connections.

The success of the COIL initiative is a testament to the resilience and forward-thinking approach of the Ukrainian educational system, especially in the face of ongoing challenges. It stands as a beacon of hope and progress, demonstrating the country’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and international cooperation.