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Internationalization in Microbiology and Bioengineering Courses: Experiences Between Mexico and Ecuador

Abstract:

A Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program was carried out between a microbiology course at Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico, and a Bioengineering class at Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Ecuador. The objective was to potentiate the learning experience of students at both institutions by joining efforts to work on a biotechnological challenge, while applying acquired knowledge and strengthening their negotiation skills, teamwork and leadership in a multicultural and international environment. A project-based learning approach was followed, with continuous assessment on student satisfaction and skills developed. The introduction of learning and engagement strategies through greater social interaction enhanced the collaboration. This allowed students to not only develop important technical skills, such as better understanding microbiology and bioprocess concepts, but also soft skills like intercultural sensibility, teamwork and adaptability to international contexts. Students at both institutions showed a high degree of satisfaction from the collaboration. This experience has had an important impact on the preparedness of future engineers to work in multi- and intercultural environments, as well as in an international context.