Abstract:

This paper presents a COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) project implemented between students of "Fundamentals of Photography and Aesthetics" at CEU San Pablo University (Madrid, Spain) and students of "New Paradigms in Health" at Tecnológico de Monterrey (Mexico). COIL is a blended learning methodology that combines independent student work in an online environment while facilitating international collaboration around global challenges. This particular COIL project bases learning on visual research oriented toward the SDGs outlined in the 2030 Agenda by UN, promoting collaborative knowledge construction that raises awareness about global sustainability challenges.

The project was structured in three phases. Phase one consisted of ice-breaker activities where students recorded introductory videos including personal information and insights about their countries of origin. Phase two comprised the core collaborative activity: mixed teams (Spanish and Mexican students) were assigned photographs related to global challenges addressed by the SDGs—health and well-being, hunger, equality, among others. This activity had two components. First, students contextualized each image by addressing where, when, and who, followed by research on the photographer, date, location, format, lighting, and subjects represented. They then analysed or proposed titles connecting with SDG narratives. Second, students conducted critical analysis of the images' public impact, explicitly identified the SDGs reflected in each photograph with justified connections, and compared national perspectives on these issues, fostering intercultural dialogue on the 2030 Agenda challenges. Phase three involved final presentations and reflection. English served as the vehicular language throughout the project.

The project successfully achieved its core objectives: application of theoretical knowledge to SDG-related activities; development of critical analysis skills regarding global issues; promotion of transnational digital communication; intercultural awareness of shared sustainability challenges; creation of international networks committed to the 2030 Agenda; and development of professional, intercultural communication, and bilingual skills. Students demonstrated enhanced visual literacy competencies applied to global issues and improved their ability to communicate about sustainability in an international context. The comparative analysis of cultural perspectives on shared challenges helped dismantle stereotypes and build common understanding about sustainable development.

This COIL project demonstrates the effectiveness of combining photography as a pedagogical tool with international online collaboration to advance SDG education. The key elements—photography as the central medium, COIL methodology, intercultural dimension, and the primary purpose of raising awareness and disseminating the Sustainable Development Goals—create a comprehensive learning experience. This approach not only develops students' analytical and communicative competencies but also cultivates global citizenship and commitment to sustainability challenges, proving that visual narratives constitute powerful vehicles for international education on the 2030 Agenda.

Keywords:

COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Visual literacy, Interculturality, Globalization in education, Photography.