Collaborative Online International Learning: an interdisciplinary educational experience.
Abstract
Introduction: innovative learning methodologies such as Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) constitute a strategy that connects students from different countries to develop global and intercultural competencies through the joint creation of academic products relevant to their professional training. Objective: to present the learning experience and the perceptions of students from two higher education institutions in a COIL activity on the role of micronutrients in immune system health. Methodology: observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study involving third-semester medical students from a Colombian university and nutrition and dietetics students from a Mexican university. The sample consisted of 67 students selected by convenience sampling. Data was collected using an anonymous Likert-type form and open-ended questions. Absolute and relative frequencies were calculated for qualitative variables, and inductive thematic analysis was applied to open-ended responses. Results: of the 67 participants, 56 (83.58%) were medical students and 11 (16.42%) were nutrition and dietetics students. Most participants indicated strong agreement that the activity strengthened their understanding of the relationship between immunology and nutrition (67.17%), promoted a comprehensive view of health (76.12%), and improved their preparation to work with professionals from other disciplines (86.57%). Conclusions: the COIL methodology was perceived favorably by participants and showed formative potential for fostering interdisciplinary learning, collaborative work, and conceptual integration between immunology and nutrition. Future experiences are encouraged to incorporate objective learning assessment instruments.
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