1. By Aaron Taylor and Gratien David Pillai
Digging for OIL: The role of Online International Learning and integrated field trips in enhancing student engagement and performance
By Aaron Taylor and Gratien David Pillai

2. Contents A bit about us The concept What is OIL? The field trip
Results
Limitations
Q&A

3. A bit about us
Gratien David Pillai Aaron Taylor

4. What is Online International Learning?
Coventry University (2016) states OIL refers to “virtual mobility”, specifically experiences that are embedded into the curriculum that allow interaction with counterparts at partner universities in order to enhance their understanding on a particular subject.
Coventry University (2016) identify three main areas integral to any OIL project:
1. The collaboration between a minimum of 2 international universities.
2. Student engagement via online interaction with peers overseas. This may be synchronous or asynchronous.
3. Any OIL project must be connected to learning outcomes which are connected to global perspectives and/or enhancing intercultural competencies.

5. The concept
Aaron identified a suitable case study article for M080 exam (Global HRM module) on the Czech Republic
Contacted Professor (author of case study)
Arranged first OIL session with Professor prior to mock exam (students asked questions on case study). Conducted by Gratien
Exam workshop delivered to clarify rubric and expectations
Second OIL session with Czech students prior to real exam (more questions on case study). Again, conducted by Gratien
Real exam taken
Field trip to Prague to visit Professor and students, cultural awareness, company visit.
Field trip strategy (1 day each for university visit, cultural awareness – city tour, company visit. Teaching moved to Monday so no lessons were missed).

6. The field trip One day sightseeing (Prague city tour)
One day company visit (Water company – tour and presentation)
One day university visit

7. Results Focus group feedback (OIL)
“I found it a good opportunity to get clarification”
“It was really fun and interactive. The lecturer was very kind and helpful”
“We should do this (OIL) for every module!”
Focus group feedback (Field trip)
“It was an amazing experience”
“I loved it”
“I learned so much more by visiting Prague”

8. Limitations OIL limitations Quality of Skype connection inconsistent
Students must read the case study and prepare questions
Language ability at the other end
Very few Czech students (class composition very much like ours)
Field trip limitations
As there is a cost for the international field trip, participation is optional meaning those who are not able or do not wish to go will not attain the same quality of experience as those that do attend.
It would have been helpful had the field trip taken place before the examination although this was not possible due to availability issues with the university in Prague.
Some did not get visas.

9. Q&A
Thank you for your attention!