Internationalisation at Home through Virtual Collaborative Learning

Abstract

Purpose: This paper aims to give an overview of the challenges, mechanisms, and achievements of internationalisation at home through reporting the unfolding of two virtual exchanges across the Mediterranean. Study design/methodology/approach: The research study was in three phases: course design, the implementation of the virtual exchanges and their evaluation through students’ questionnaires. The evaluation was twofold; quantitative through student questionnaires and qualitative through forums analysis and synchronous meetings observation. Findings: Results were in line with the quasi-consensus over the efficiency of virtual mobility in improving students’ intercultural communicative competence, collaboration in virtual teams and English proficiency and hence supporting them in their internationalisation at home process. Originality/value: The value of the current study lies in showing on a practical ground the viability of researching the benefits of virtual exchange, therefore adopting it as a strong strategy for internationalisation at home.