Student Virtual Exchange Collaboration Produces “Voices of Forensic Psychology: Global Podcast Series”

Incorporating the Global Online Learning Exchange (GOLE) into my forensic psychology course at St. John’s University has been a transformative journey, creating unique opportunities for students to engage across cultures and develop a global perspective. Coming from a diverse international background myself, having immigrated three times and speaking five languages, I understand the importance of broadening perspectives to enhance learning and better prepare students for their future. This fall, I collaborated with Dr. Tamsin Higgs at the University of Montreal in Quebec to bring students together for a unique and dynamic project: the creation of podcast episodes for our newly established “Voices of Forensic Psychology: Global Podcast Series.”

The project allowed students from St. John’s University and the University of Montreal to explore key topics in forensic psychology, while embracing the perspectives of their counterparts from another country. Although being in the same time zone, students worked asynchronously due to differing schedules to brainstorm, research, and produce podcast episodes tackling subjects like criminal profiling, the psychology of terrorism, and impact of long-term victimization. Each episode represents a collaborative effort, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application and cultural insights.

Students described the experience as both enriching and transformative. Many shared how it enhanced their understanding of forensic psychology’s global applications, while challenging them to think critically and adapt to diverse perspectives. Multiple students mentioned that this was their first time interacting with individuals from another country, describing the experience as eye-opening and profoundly impactful. One student noted how collaborating with peers from Montreal deepened their appreciation for the cultural and legal differences that shape the field of forensic psychology. Another highlighted how the project helped them develop practical skills, such as communication, research, and media production, while fostering cross-cultural empathy and collaboration.

The culmination of their hard work is available to the public through the “Voices of Forensic Psychology: Global Podcast Series,” which can be accessed on Spotify. The first season showcases six episodes on a range of topics presented through engaging discussions, and even includes renowned guest speakers who were interviewed by the students. The episodes to be published were selected through a voting process where students chose the top five. Additionally, faculty selected one more episode to highlight. The student-led format provides a fresh and authentic perspective.

This partnership with Dr. Higgs and the University of Montreal exemplifies the spirit of GOLE by breaking down barriers and preparing students for the interconnected world they will navigate as future professionals. The success of this initiative has inspired plans to continue the collaboration in the spring semester, where we will create a second season of the podcast series. This ongoing project not only strengthens students’ academic and professional skills, but also underscores the importance of global collaboration in addressing complex issues.

Incorporating GOLE into the forensic psychology curriculum has been a deeply rewarding experience. It has enriched the learning process, equipped students with practical and transferable skills, and fostered meaningful connections that extend far beyond the classroom. Looking ahead to the second season of our podcast series, we are eager to build on this momentum, further enhancing cultural and educational bridges through innovative and impactful projects.