Transforming health through communities: an experience from a collaborative online international learning program

Background

For many years, universities have placed a strong emphasis on providing students with an internationalization experience through study-abroad programs; however, the recent pandemic led many universities to look for alternatives to continue offering students an international experience.

Method

This article describes the implementation and evaluation of a collaborative online international learning (COIL) experience between nursing students in Australia and the United Kingdom.

Results

Students explored community spirit in the recovery from COVID-19. Students positively rated the experience and shared insights and outcomes gained from the program.

Conclusion

The COIL experience exposed nursing students from Australia and the United Kingdom to learn about public health issues and develop cultural awareness and a sense of global community. Future programs should evaluate the long-term effects on students' nursing practice and their careers. [J Nurs Educ. 2023;62(7):387-392.].