The Office of International Affairs is introducing Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) as a new initiative to foster global academic collaboration. COIL enables faculty members to co-teach online courses with like-minded scholars from partner institutions abroad, based on shared teaching and research interests. This collaboration strengthens academic ties while providing a rich, cross-cultural learning experience for students.

Through COIL courses, students can gain access to the latest international knowledge and diverse cultural perspectives—all without the need to travel abroad. They’ll also have the opportunity to improve their language skills and build friendships with peers from around the world.

To encourage faculty participation in COIL, the Office of International Affairs is offering grants for COIL course development, micro-courses, and workshops.

• COIL Grant Guidelines

• Application Process

• Funding Criteria

About COIL
COIL, short for Collaborative Online International Learning, is an innovative international education model developed by the State University of New York (SUNY). It brings together students and faculty from different countries through real-time virtual classrooms, aiming to create a global learning environment that enhances intercultural communication skills.

COIL courses typically involve online discussions, group collaboration, and project-based learning. These activities not only build cross-cultural competence and critical thinking but also broaden students’ global perspectives.

A Student-Centered Approach to Learning
Unlike traditional lecture-based teaching, COIL emphasizes a collaborative, student-centered approach. Activities are designed to guide and support learners in co-constructing knowledge through teamwork and peer interaction. In this model, instructors take on the role of course designers, facilitators, and assessors, while students engage in group learning or learning communities that enhance cooperation, autonomy, and engagement (Slavin, 2011).

Global Learning Without Leaving Home
COIL offers international learning opportunities without the need to travel, reducing costs and overcoming geographic and time-zone barriers. By co-teaching with faculty from international institutions, our university enables students to work on joint projects and engage in cultural exchange with peers worldwide—enhancing their global awareness and cross-cultural communication skills.

In addition to broadening international networks, COIL helps students develop essential skills for today’s workforce, including teamwork and digital collaboration. Through this global learning experience, students are better prepared to navigate multicultural environments and build a strong foundation for their future careers.

COIL Program – Friendly Introduction Link：

• State University of New York, COIL

• MUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINT

• Chinese Culture University – Faculty Teaching Innovation and Instructional Materials Development Award Final Report

• National Yunlin University of Science and Technology – COIL Program

• National Taiwan Normal University – Advancing Online Collaborative International Learning and Dual Master's Programs in Partnership with Kyushu University through a Transnational Education Strategy with Sister Schools