How can international collaboration and virtual exchange prepare future teachers for the challenges of today’s increasingly interconnected classrooms? This was one of the questions explored in a recent episode of Conexión Europa, broadcast on Onda Regional de Murcia (ORM), which highlighted the University of Murcia’s involvement in the Erasmus+ INVITED project.
The programme, aired on 2 April 2026 as part of the radio show El Mirador, focused on the Faculty of Education’s efforts to promote the internationalisation of teacher education through European cooperation and innovative learning opportunities. A particular focus was placed on the Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) hosted by the University of Warsaw, which brought together university lecturers and future teachers from Poland, Slovenia and Germany. Representing the University of Murcia, lecturers Yvette Coyle and Encarna Carrillo were invited alongside fourth-year student teachers Nerea Juárez and Noelia Araque.
As part of the INVITED project, the BIP combined virtual learning activities with an intensive five-day face-to-face programme in Warsaw. This blended approach provided participants with opportunities to exchange experiences, collaborate internationally and explore how virtual exchange can be integrated into primary language education and teacher training.
One of the key messages highlighted during the programme was the importance of equipping future teachers with practical competences in virtual exchange and intercultural communication. Beyond the immediate benefits for participating student teachers, the experience aims to create a multiplier effect: future educators can bring the knowledge, skills and ideas developed through international collaboration into their own classrooms, creating new opportunities for primary school learners to connect with peers across borders.
The radio feature also emphasised the value of European university partnerships in breaking down linguistic and geographical barriers and preparing future teachers for the realities of global communication.
At INVITED, we are delighted to see our partners’ work and experiences reaching wider audiences and contributing to discussions about the future of language teacher education. Initiatives such as the Warsaw BIP demonstrate how virtual exchange, combined with face-to-face collaboration, can turn internationalisation into a meaningful and practical part of initial teacher education.
Congratulations to our colleagues and student teachers at the University of Murcia for sharing their INVITED experience!
Listen to the full radio programme (in Spanish): Conexión Europa – La Facultad de Educación de la Universidad de Murcia impulsa la internacionalización docente, Onda Regional de Murcia, 2 April 2026.
