Extending the Classroom Walls: Liquidifying Power Dynamics With Online/Blended Learning and International Partnerships

The paper will present how online-blended learning methods based on collaboration, play and culture-specific activities have impacted on our Level 4 Higher Education international students’ learning. The paper will discuss relevant literature as well as present examples from previous case studies that led to the methodological development of the curriculum. In detail, there will be an in-depth analysis of three case studies we have ran with our ‘Cert.HE: Preparation for Design, Media and Screen’ students at London College of Communication, University of the Arts London since September 2018. The first case study will analyse the ways we have used collaborative Visual Essay films as alternative ways of writing and prompts for critique. Being part of a theory unit at the very start of the course ‘, these films challenge and expand traditional modes of engaging with theory as well as foster reflection and collaboration within our diverse student cohort. The second case study is a collaborative blended learning project with undergraduate students and staff from the Federal University of Espírito Santo-Department of Social Communication in Brazil. The project involved online collaboration, student-led decision making, knowledge and fun exchange. The third case study is about the methods we have used to decolonise the student study material by setting up an international library and in our studio space. The paper will explore the interface between technology, pedagogy and culture as well as the importance of presence, relationships and collaboration during international online/ blended learning endeavors.