Collaborative online international learning projects in the context of contemporary pedagogical challenges
The paper aims to reveal and identify the role of collaborative online international learning (COIL) projects in the context of contemporary pedagogical challengers and principles. It discusses the necessity of considering the appearance of the cultural behavioural patterns, which are based on online ethnicity, and the necessity of exploring such principles of pedagogy as socially conscious pedagogy, accessibility, open pedagogy and educational resources, and deals with universities' mission to teach young people around the world respect and international understanding. The paper emphasises the role of collaborative international projects in promoting virtual mobility and bridging the culture through COIL. Conducted in 2019-2020, the international project between Russian and American students provided a collaborative educational experience focused on the challenges of migration. The paper explores the borders, the process of migration, migrants, stereotypes and ethnocentrism in the context of international relations. Even though this is a virtual experience, it is highly beneficial to students' development in intercultural competence. The paper highlights the need for universities to give their students the opportunities and environment to enhance their intercultural competence. The COIL model enhances skills that are necessary for work in a team, develops students' ability to produce and present work collaboratively. The paper highlights the necessity of realising an individual's potential and considering the content of the permeable structures that develops cross-disciplinary interaction, soft skills and critical thinking.