Collaborative online international learning in physiology: a case study

Area of Science:

• Physiology education
• Higher education pedagogy
• Internationalization in science

Background:

• Active learning methodologies are growing but often lack international scope.
• Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) offers a multicultural, project-based approach for student development.
• The application of COIL in physiology education remains limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the application of COIL in physiology to enhance innovation and business skills.
• To develop a sports-assessment service concept using physiology and biomechanics.
• To involve international student teams in a structured learning program.

Main Methods:

• Implemented a 7-week COIL program involving undergraduate and master's students from Brazil, Germany, and Spain.
• Teams collaborated online to develop a sports-assessment service concept.
• Workshops covered COIL methodology, business model design, and communication techniques.

Main Results:

• Students gained new concepts, improved soft skills, and increased confidence in innovative proposals.
• Participants experienced diverse cultures and developed professional connections.
• Challenges included language barriers, scheduling, and task complexity.

Conclusions:

• COIL is an effective methodology for integrating innovation and entrepreneurship into physiology curricula.
• This approach enhances students' business acumen and opens postgraduation opportunities.
• Students and coaches found the COIL experience beneficial for skill development.