This study examined the collaboration and group dynamics within international cohorts researching the UN Sustainable Development Goals in a COIL (collaborative online international learning) environment. It culminated in a final recorded video project in the format of a multi-participant screencast-style presentation. Cultural concepts of politeness, leadership, turn-taking, and perceived notions of correct behavior naturally affect interactions in group communicative situations. This study aimed to develop a greater understanding of the interplay between stereotypically shy Japanese behavior and traditionally assertive Taiwanese communicative norms. What can we do as language educators to promote effective group work and intercultural communication, and what is the best balance between scaffolded content and student-centered autonomy? This project was the fifth iteration of an ongoing COIL project between Taiwan and Japan. Building on past successes, shared materials on the Google platform were used as an effective method of working between international groups in asynchronous interactions. Additionally, participants used LINE Openchat groups for direct communication, allowing for a safe and moderated space which maximized privacy and transparency. Students utilized their choice of online platforms for live meetings, giving each cohort autonomy within their learning environment. Our methodology for evaluating the efficacy of group interactions used student surveys and the analysis of recordings and transcripts of group meetings. Consent and anonymization of data protected student privacy and confidentiality. This study should be of interest to educators undertaking COIL projects and/or enabling their students to improve communication skills in international contexts.

Authors:
Michael Barr, Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, Japan
Brian Bachman, Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, Japan
Yi-Hung Liao, National Pingtung University, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Mr Michael Barr is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at Kyoto University of Foreign Studies in Japan

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