Practice Reports

Engaging in an online odyssey: Globally Networked Learning among undergraduates in Germany and the US

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21827/jve.6.40521

Keywords:

digital technology, global awareness, Globally Networked Learning(GNL), intercultural communication, regions, virtual exchange

Abstract

The purpose of this practice report is to describe a Global Networked Learning (GNL) that unfolded among a cohort of 54 University students (n=54) in Germany and the United States. There were 28 students from Germany and 26 students from the United States who participated in the international virtual exchange. A GNL is a collaborative, international online approach to help students and instructors from universities around the world to participate in a learning exchange and the creation of knowledge through project-based learning. The GNL project centered around crafting an engaging multimedia presentation about regions called a Global Competency Virtual Odyssey (GCVO). The focus of the GCVO was on regions in Germany and the United States. The GNL project was implemented over a an eight-week period. The students collaborated via four synchronous Zoom sessions with further collaboration happening over WhatsApp. The report describes the features of the GNL project and the collaborative process of creating and presenting the GCVOs. The article could be relevant to readers as it offers an explanation how to implement a GNL project. The report concludes with a discussion of the students’ perceptions of creating and presenting their GCVOs as part of the GNL project.

Author Biographies

Erik Jon Byker, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Erik Jon Byker, Ph.D., is a Full Professor in the Cato College of Education and Honors College at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He created the TEDxCraverRoad Countdown, which focuses on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His Ph.D. degree is in Curriculum, Teaching, and Educational Policy from Michigan State University.

Benjamin Ade-Thurow, Pädagogische Hochschule Ludwigsburg

Benjamin Ade-Thurow, Ph.D, is a Lecturer in the Institute of English, Ludwigsburg University of Education, Germany. His research interests include digital media, gamification in SLA, ELT/FLT methodology, and content and language integrated learning (CLIL). He received his Ph.D. and Master’s degree in Second Language Education and Digitalization from Ludwigsburg University.

Florence Martin, North Carolina State University

Florence Martin, Ph.D., is a Professor in Learning, Design and Technology at North Carolina State University. Dr. Martin engages in research to create transformative learning experiences through effective design and integration of digital teaching and learning innovations. She received her Doctorate and Master’s degrees in Educational Technology from Arizona State University.

Mahita Sadula, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Mahita Sadula is a fourth-year pre-medical undergraduate student double majoring in Biology and Sociology at UNC Charlotte. She is a member of the University Honors Program. She has presented her research on Sustainable Development Goal #13: Climate Action at research conferences like the National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR).

Published

2023-12-12

Issue

Vol. 6 (2023)

Section

Practice Reports

Copyright (c) 2023 Erik Jon Byker, Benjamin Ade-Thurow, Florence Martin, Mahita Sadula

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