Program Profile

American Association of Colleges & Universities (AAC&U)

Institute for Virtual Exchange and COIL Centers of Excellence

  • Undergraduate
  • Graduate

AAC&U’s Institute for Virtual Exchange and COIL Centers of Excellence elevates innovative global education, systemically infusing virtual exchange in higher education institutions throughout the Middle East and North Africa and the United States. The program fosters transformative international partnerships among institutions, specifically using the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) model of virtual exchange to enhance curricula. Through comprehensive action plans, robust mentorship, and targeted evaluation, the program ensures sustainable advancements in teaching and learning, positioning institutions as centers of excellence and preparing students as effective global citizens.

Activities

The program’s primary activities are designed to integrate virtual exchange and COIL more deeply into academic systems, turning them into vibrant centers of knowledge and innovation. Key program activities include: professional development tailored for faculty and administrators; targeted curricula development aiming to address global challenges and enhance educational offerings; digital and leadership skill enhancement; and preparing institutions to implement and sustain virtual, collaborative projects. 

Program Details

Number of Participants

1,125

U.S. States and Territories Reached
  • All U.S. States and Territories
Countries and Territories Reached
    • Egypt
    • Iraq
    • Jordan
    • Morocco
    • Palestinian Territories
Length of Exchange

13 weeks (three hours of synchronous activities/week and two hours of asynchronous activities/week)

If you are interested in bringing this program to your institution, complete this form.

The Institute for Virtual Exchange and COIL Centers of Excellence is implemented by AAC&U and is supported by the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative (JCSVEI). JCSVEI is a U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs program administered by the Aspen Institute.