Abstract:

In the digital age, where educational practices and pedagogical approaches are continuously evolving and adapting to technological advancements, virtual exchange plays a pivotal role in shaping the competencies of teachers necessary for successful teaching in the modern world. This development is particularly significant in the context of the globalization of education, where the emphasis is increasingly on the development of digital, intercultural competencies, and global citizenship among students.

The communication ability of a teacher is a fundamental element that enables the successful implementation of virtual exchanges. This ability encompasses not only the technical skills in using digital tools and platforms but also the capacity for effective knowledge transfer, fostering interaction and dialogue among students from different cultural environments, and developing empathy and understanding of diversity. In the context of virtual exchanges, this communicative ability allows teachers to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries, promote intercultural understanding and collaboration, and thereby contribute to the formation of globally aware students.

Slovenian teachers involved in the VALIANT project have gained valuable insights from their experiences in virtual exchanges, which have enriched their pedagogical practice and communication skills. Awareness of the added value that virtual exchange brings to teaching has encouraged teachers to develop digital competencies, while also highlighting the importance of intercultural competency and a global perspective on education. Improved communication skills with colleagues from different cultures and an enhanced understanding of the needs and challenges of teachers from other countries are evidence that virtual exchange is key to developing effective pedagogical practice in a globalized world.

Besides technical and communicative skills, successful implementation of virtual exchanges also crucially involves understanding and valuing diversity, and the ability to adapt and innovate pedagogical methods. Teachers have reported that participation in the project increased their sense of belonging to a broader community of educators and strengthened their conviction of the importance of collaboration and connection in education.

In light of these findings, it is clear that virtual exchanges not only enrich the pedagogical practice of teachers but also strengthen their communication capabilities, which are fundamental for successfully educating students for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. This underscores the need for further integration of virtual exchanges into curricula and teacher training programs, to thus encourage the development of educators who are capable of effectively operating and communicating in a globally connected educational environment.

Keywords:

Communication competence, global perspective, intercultural competence, professional identity, teacher, virtual exchange.