International teaching, networking, and the exchange of artistic positions—and their cross-context experimentation worldwide—are particularly important across all arts disciplines, design, music, and the performing arts. The BeCOIL consortium project aimed to increase both the range and the quality of digital international teaching and learning opportunities (Collaborative Online International Learning, COIL) at Berlin’s higher education institutions by developing shared standards and leveraging synergies. In doing so, the project sought to strengthen collaboration among all Berlin universities and with their international partners, offer international learning opportunities to non-mobile students, respond to the digital transformation of the international mobility landscape, and further develop the relevant competencies of both instructors and students, embedding these sustainably within universities and higher education institutions.

At Berlin University of the Arts (UdK Berlin), the focus was on designing and implementing COIL formats for the arts—initiating international virtual artistic collaborations among students, facilitating the development of artistic projects on site, and preparing for international exchange as well as initiating collaboration (including in hybrid formats) with international partner universities. This enabled students in art and design disciplines to experience and reflect on their studies more strongly in an international context. Instructors had the opportunity to engage in international exchange and to develop projects jointly with colleagues at partner institutions, thereby enriching their teaching in intercultural, digital, or hybrid ways.

Over the course of the project, UdK Berlin held consultation meetings and supported instructors in planning and delivering digital international teaching formats. In parallel, teaching and learning materials were developed, including self-study resources as well as multimedia content (e.g., explanatory formats) for trainings, workshops, and public communication. These resources were compiled and made accessible via the BeCOIL web presence, whose design at UdK Berlin was realized in collaboration with international students.

Examples of digital international teaching and learning contexts that became visible within the BeCOIL framework and/or could be supported by the project coordination include The Digital Multilogue on Fashion Education and Lunga Lunga (Thursday Sessions – The Lunga Lunga Edition II).

The consortium project will conclude at the end of 2025. UdK Berlin would like to thank all students, instructors, colleagues, and other interested parties who contributed to the success of BeCOIL through their commitment, expertise, and exchange.

Anyone interested in digital international teaching going forward is welcome to contact the Digital Learning Center team: dlc_ @udk-berlin.de

For further information on the joint project BeCOIL, please also visit our blog: