Changes in the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program at the University of Minnesota (UMN) began in fall 2024 with the appointment of Dan Nolan as Director for COIL Initiatives and Gabriela Méndez as Associate Director. Together, they are building a strong team to expand COIL opportunities for faculty and students across the UMN system and beyond.

Professional Development and Global Collaboration

UMN COIL offers professional development in both English and Spanish to faculty at UMN and worldwide. A major milestone was reached in January when Gabriela Méndez facilitated the first Spanish-language COIL Design & Facilitation Essentials micro-credentialed workshop for INACAP faculty in Chile. Participants from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Spain, Honduras, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela joined as international partners, resulting in over 25 new COIL collaborations. 

One participant shared:

“I feel deeply proud to have participated in this training. It challenged me to step into the role of a student again, allowing me to understand learning challenges firsthand. Facilitating collaboration among students across borders is a transformative experience that fosters global community building.”

Beyond INACAP, UMN COIL will soon collaborate with Cal State LA and the CIBER COIL Network, which includes Florida International University, University of Maryland, The Ohio State University, University of Washington, and San Diego State University.

Spring 2025 COIL Program

UMN COIL is inviting faculty and graduate teaching assistants to apply for the Spring 2025 COIL Program, designed for those planning to implement a COIL module in fall 2025 or beyond. Selected participants will join the COIL Design & Facilitation Essentials workshop alongside their international partners.

This 6-module workshop guides UMN faculty and their international partner through the process of co-developing a COIL module for one of their courses. The workshop takes approximately 20 hours to complete, including 5 synchronous sessions, and asynchronous activities.

Learn more and apply by March 3 

With a revitalized program, strategic partnerships, and expanded global impact, UMN COIL is reinforcing its commitment to internationalization and innovation in education. Contact coil@umn.edu for more information.