Eleanor Kane

Biogram

Eleanor Anne Kane is a professor in the Department of International Communication at the Faculty of International Relations, University of Shimane, Japan. She holds a Master’s degree with distinction from the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Her research interests include global varieties of English, intercultural communication, and creative approaches to language teaching. She has also presented on topics related to global Englishes and cultural aspects of everyday life.

Virtual Exchange Classes that help our students leave their comfort zone

Eleanor Kane & Anna Łobodzińska

Virtual Exchange: Preparing Students for a Culturally Diverse World
In today’s increasingly interconnected world, the ability to communicate and collaborate across cultures is not just an asset—it is a necessity. English serves as a vital tool that students must learn to use effectively in this globalized landscape.
This presentation introduces the Global Understanding (GU) program, a flagship initiative of Global Partners in Education (GPE), coordinated by East Carolina University, the USA. Through Global Virtual Exchange (GVE), this international, collaborative educational model connects students from GPE member institutions in synchronous and asynchronous sessions aimed at developing intercultural competence.
At the core of the GU program is meaningful intercultural communication, both through structured class discussions on selected topics and informal, student-led interactions outside of scheduled meetings. A key component is the student-driven collaborative project, in which international partners co-create a product that raises awareness about one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The emphasis, however, lies not on the final product but on the collaborative process—navigating cultural differences, engaging in dialogue, and building mutual understanding across borders.
Students work across time zones and cultural contexts to conduct joint research, share perspectives, and produce a video that reflects their shared commitment to global challenges. This immersive experience helps students build global citizenship and acquire essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, adaptability, and intercultural communication.
The presentation explores the pedagogical framework of the GU program, the facilitative role of instructors, and the practical strategies for implementation. By fostering authentic, student-centered exchange and collaborative problem-solving, the GU program offers an inclusive, impactful model for international education in the digital age.