Introduction: Intercultural competence and therapeutic skills are increasingly essential in higher education training. The COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) project between the University of Jaén (Spain) and the Pedagogical and Technological University of Tunja-Boyacá (Colombia) aimed to strengthen students' intercultural sensitivity, therapeutic abilities, and critical reflection through collaborative online activities. Objectives: To compare professional realities in Social Education (Spain) and Clinical Psychology (Colombia); To improve knowledge of therapeutic skills in multicultural contexts; To assess the satisfaction and learning outcomes of students from both institutions. Methodology: A qualitative design with pre-post evaluation was used. A total of 39 students participated (11 from Spain, 28 from Colombia).
Activities included debates, role-plays, intercultural clinical simulations, and guided reflection circles. Knowledge assessment: pre- and post-questionnaire on therapeutic skills. Satisfaction assessment: Likert scale (1-5) measuring motivation, relevance, and perceived usefulness. Qualitative data: reflective journals, SWOT analysis, and group discussions. Results: Spain (n=11): Knowledge improved from a mean of pre 6.4 and post 8.7, satisfaction rose from 3.0 to 4.8. Spanish students highlighted intercultural sensitivity and awareness of professional prejudices. Colombia (n=28): Knowledge improved from 6.1 to 8.3, satisfaction rose from 3.2 to 4.5. Colombian students emphasized teamwork, empathy, and applicability to clinical practice. Qualitative analysis: Emerging categories included interdisciplinary collaboration, empathy, cultural awareness, professional identity reflection, and practical utility. Conclusions:
The COIL experience was effective in enhancing therapeutic skills and intercultural sensitivity, with notable increases in knowledge and satisfaction across both groups. Spanish students showed stronger gains in cultural reflexivity, while Colombian students emphasized applied clinical learning. The project demonstrates the potential of COIL to foster meaningful, situated, and collaborative learning, aligned with Sustainable Development Goals on inclusive education and international cooperation.