USF World is joining the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) Institute for Virtual Exchange/Collaborative Online International Learning effort to create a Center of Excellence that expands opportunities for students to learn more about the world without leaving home.
USF’s Virtual Global Exchange Program provides students with international experiences through virtual collaboration with peers from around the world. Faculty work in tandem with partners overseas to develop assignments and activities that meet learning outcomes of their courses as well as practical technical and intercultural communication skills by virtue of the collaboration
“Virtual Global Exchange has been developing at USF in collaboration with our international partners for five years now,” said Rahi Dayerizadeh, Associate Director for Global Learning, Campus Programs. "It's an amazing opportunity for students and faculty to travel through technology and learn from one another.”
"[Virtual Global Exchange is] an amazing opportunity for students and faculty to travel through technology and learn from one another." — Rahi Dayerizadeh
AAC&U’s Institute for Virtual Exchange and COIL Centers of Excellence is designed to elevate innovative global education further by embedding virtual exchange in institutions across the Middle East, North Africa and the U.S. Using the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) model, the program fosters partnerships, enriches curricula and prepares students as effective leaders, the organization said.
The AAC&U Institute for Virtual Exchange/COIL program begins this fall and next spring with faculty professional development sessions, mentoring and activities. The modules for students will be available in spring and fall 2026 semesters.
Supported by the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative, the program is funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and administered by the The Aspen Institute.
Read more about how USF faculty members and students have been connecting with colleagues and peers around the world in Bringing the World to Students.