Advances in Virtual Learning: From Cross-cultural Teams to Regional/Global MOOCS

On-line learning in our field is increasing dramatically. Administrators and faculty in Europe, Canada and the U.S. as well as other regions are grappling with a host of issues and opportunities. This paper reports on findings from a two-year cross-national study. Using multiple methods including literature review, participant observation, document analyses, and recorded discussions, the paper provides an overview of what exists, highlights emerging trends, and discusses evaluation of learning outcomes. Included in these analyses are examples of 2015 trends including the emergence of virtual cross-national and cross-regional internships, exchanges and study abroad as well as the incorporation of cross-cultural communication modules in a range of on-line learning experiences. The paper also presents a change logic model for on-line virtual learning components in the field of political science. Finally, it sets forth recommendations for faculty and administrators regarding the new models analyzed in this paper.