NYC Gazette

In the spring of 2024, a collaborative Global Online Learning Exchange (GOLE) project was initiated between St. John’s University and Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (UCSC) in Milan, Italy. The project aimed to enhance students' intercultural competency and language skills through practical applications.

Professor Paul Prostitis from UCSC partnered with a faculty member from St. John’s to create a five-week program. Students from both institutions researched healthcare systems in their respective countries, proposing sustainable and equitable alternatives to improve public health outcomes. These proposals were based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The initial phase involved an icebreaker activity that helped students explore sociolinguistic and cultural self-awareness while getting acquainted with group members. In the main phase, students formed international teams using both synchronous and asynchronous communication tools for organizing meetings, delegating tasks, and maintaining contact throughout the collaboration. Teams compared healthcare systems using selected criteria and statistical data to evaluate efficacy concerning public health outcomes and spending.

Students presented their findings in the target language, recommending changes aligned with UN goals. A student remarked on gaining organizational and team management skills: “I learned a lot about organization and team management, from helping organize Zoom calls to speaking more about my ideas over WhatsApp.”

In the post-GOLE phase, reflections revealed positive feedback from participants. One student noted: “By doing this course, I realized the impact of comparing one’s own country with another.” Faculty also benefited from collaborating internationally, utilizing digital tools innovatively, and applying new pedagogical strategies.

The faculty members expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations following this enriching experience.