Date: July 28, 2025
On July 28, 2025, at 3:00 PM, the first Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) meeting titled “COIL 1: Introduction and General Information about COIL” was conducted via Zoom. The meeting was led by Dr. Hoa of Tra Vinh University and was attended by a total of 18 participants from various institutions, including Tra Vinh University, Samar State University (SSU), the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), and Southern Leyte State University (SLSU).
Samar State University was represented by Dr. Elmer A. Irene, Ms. Joan Baclay, Dr. Nathalie Ann Acosta, and Mr. Ariel Abarratigue. The meeting served as an orientation on the COIL Network (COIN), which aims to strengthen global partnerships and foster intercultural learning through Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) and Virtual Exchange (VE). Dr. Hoa explained that the COIN initiative seeks to build on the current momentum by expanding COIL activities, promoting regulated knowledge-sharing through VE, and developing an intercultural competence course grounded in COIL methodologies.
One of the main agenda items was the assignment of COIL coordinators for each participating university. Mr. Ariel Abarratigue was officially designated as the COIL coordinator for Samar State University. The meeting also featured the sharing of COIL experiences and best practices by Dr. Elmer A. Irene, Ms. Leslie Cobilla, Ms. Leah Tinga, Ms. Mary Rose Ponce, and Mr. Neil Egloso. These speakers highlighted the benefits and challenges of implementing COIL projects, emphasizing the value of cross-cultural collaboration and mutual learning.
Additionally, Ms. Joan Baclay of SSU was recommended to serve as the coordinator for research opportunities related to COIL. Her role will involve exploring and promoting research initiatives that align with the goals of COIL and enhance academic collaboration among partner institutions.
Overall, the meeting successfully laid the groundwork for future COIL activities and reaffirmed the commitment of participating universities to strengthen international linkages through meaningful virtual engagement.
#SDG4QualityEducation
# SDG10ReducedInequalities
#SDG17PartnershipfortheGoals
