## **COIL Connect Research Group**
The COIL Connect Research Group brings together members who are actively exploring or studying Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) and Virtual Exchange (VE). Following our first online meeting in December 2024, COIL Connect staff and researchers from around the world have met monthly to collaborate.
530 of our 2,100 active members - about 25% - have identified themselves as researchers. This strong response reflects growing global interest in exploring the theory, practice, and long-term impact of COIL.
We have recently formed a nine-member Steering Committee to lead and implement research-related projects. You can find the names, photos, and bios of the committee membes [here](https://coilconnect.org/steering)
Have a question or suggestion?
Join the conversation in the [Connect Space](https://coilconnect.org/connectspace) under the Research Initiative topic.
## **A Growing Research Community**
These research oriented members come from diverse institutions and focus on key topics such as:
- Student learning
- Faculty development
- Institutional practices
- COIL assessment
- Internationalization at home
- Intercultural collaboration
- COIL standards and best practices
## **Who Can Join?**
This group is open to COIL Connect members who:
- Are currently conducting COIL-related research
- Are planning to start new research projects
- Want to stay informed about ongoing studies
- Can commit to monthly online meetings
It’s a space to share ideas, collaborate, and grow together. Activities include:
- Research networking
- Joint projects
- Sharing of resources (publications, data, tools)
_Note: To ensure active and meaningful participation, new members may be selected based on their commitment and research interests._
## **How to Join**
Interested in joining the Research Group and receiving updates?
**[Complete this short survey](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScPRuqcg3sTlLoeKIrhW6pGVLv5BEgEMINghAG2qNn_Du61kA/viewform)** to join our mailing list.
The survey gathers essential information to help us understand our research community._
Data may only be shared in a fully anonymized format._
## **Insights from the Community**
In February 2025, we launched this first survey targeting COIL researchers in our network. 43 members responded by April, offering valuable insights into their experiences and interests. That is why we are continuing to use this survey as an entry portal for those who wishing to join us.
[View the survey results here](https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1l8vtCyo3pD5Jb97KfSLRnhO9FipOZlTU/edit?slide=id.p1#slide=id.p1)
We plan to hold at least two open meetings per year for interested members, in addition to our monthly Steering Committee sessions.
## **Let’s Build the Future of COIL Research—Together**
Join us in shaping an inclusive, and impactful global COIL research community. Whether you're an experienced scholar or just getting started, your contribution matters.