Virtual academic mobility of students from a public university in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.19083/ridu.2026.2379Keywords:
Virtual academic mobility, Digital technologies, University students, Education, Professional careersAbstract
Introduction: During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual mobility became a global necessity in various contexts, including the academic sphere. Objective: To understand the experiences of undergraduate students at the Federal University of Pampa with virtual academic mobility during remote learning amid the pandemic. Method: This is a qualitative study conducted at a Brazilian public university, utilizing document analysis and 11 semi-structured interviews with students who took courses virtually at other campuses of the institution, at Brazilian universities, and abroad, with data analyzed through reflective thematic analysis. Results: The study identified three themes: (1) motivations; (2) challenges and difficulties; and (3) advantages and contributions of virtual academic mobility. Discussion: The study presents a concept of virtual academic mobility and advocates for its expansion, in both intra- and inter-institutional modalities, as well as internationally. Another important factor is that the use of technology does not eliminate structural inequalities but expands access to provide opportunities for more vulnerable students. Its consolidation requires institutional planning, adequate technological and pedagogical infrastructure, and inclusive policies.
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