Editorial

Editorial

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21827/jve.8.43103

Abstract

This editorial introduces a Special Issue of the Journal of Virtual Exchange featuring two research articles originally presented at the 2024 International Virtual Exchange Conference (IVEC). The contributions highlight current advances in virtual exchange (VE) research with a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and sustainability. The first article examines a VE between technical and professional communication and translation studies students engaged in translating culturally embedded culinary texts, demonstrating how VE environments support negotiation of meaning, audience awareness, and the development of professional competencies. The second article addresses the issue of VE sustainability by applying an implementation science lens to long-standing exchanges, revealing how facilitators balance fidelity to core objectives with purposeful adaptation across iterations. Together, these studies underscore VE’s potential to foster authentic, multilingual, and equity-centered learning while emphasizing the importance of adaptable and sustainable design. The editorial situates these contributions within broader conversations shaping the field and invites continued scholarly engagement with VE research and practice.

Author Biographies

Alina Slapac, University of Missouri-St. Louis

Dr. Alina Slapac is an associate professor in the College of Education at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. Her research focuses on teacher development, culturally and linguistically responsive teaching, and the internationalization of higher education, emphasizing (participatory) action research and COIL/virtual exchange grounded in social justice and critical frameworks.

Alex Masardo , University of Gloucestershire

Dr. Alexander Masardo is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Education, Health and Science at the University of Gloucestershire. He is the University Global Literacies lead and teaches and researches in the fields of education, sociology of the family and family policy, early childhood, inclusive education, and virtual exchange.

Published

2025-12-23

Issue

Vol. 8 (2025): Special Issue IVEC 2024

Section

Editorial

Copyright (c) 2025 Alina Slapac, Alex Masardo

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