Collaborative online international learning (COIL) experience among dental students from Argentina and Spain: evaluation of intercultural competencies and student perceptions

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the perceptions, intercultural competencies, and experiences of dental students who participated in a pilot Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) experience between an Argentine and a Spanish universities.Methods: A COIL experience was developed between dental students from the National University of Córdoba (Argentina) and the University of Granada (Spain), focused on the comparative analysis of the healthcare systems of both countries. The program included synchronous activities, mirror classes, and collaborative work in international groups. Upon completion and after providing informed consent, participants completed an anonymous ad hoc questionnaire assessing intercultural competencies, collaborative experience, perceived learning, and overall evaluation. Results: Thirty-four students participated and completed the questionnaire. More than 95% reported that the experience fostered engagement with culturally diverse perspectives and respect for different points of view. Eighty-seven percent considered that it improved their intercultural communication skills. Before the experience, curiosity was the predominant feeling (87%), whereas after completion the most frequently reported emotions were satisfaction (78.3%), happiness related to international teamwork (78.3%), meaningful learning (73.9%), and pride (69.6%). All students stated that the activity encouraged reflection on the strengths and challenges of their own healthcare systems. Conclusions: The COIL experience demonstrated potential to promote intercultural competencies, meaningful learning, and critical reflection among dental students, constituting an accessible strategy to strengthen the internationalization of the curriculum without requiring physical mobility. This experience may serve as a replicable model for other health-related disciplines.