Student Learning of APRU Open Dialogue

On May 6, 2026, UNC Charlotte students participated in Asia Pacific Rim University (APRU) the Open Dialogues for the first time. This was the 6th cohort of Open Dialogues.

The Open Dialogue aims to develop a collaborative model for promoting meaningful conversations among the consortium universities in the Pacific Rim, to create empathy and awareness on current shared topics, and to develop responsible leadership skills.

On May 6, 2026, UNC Charlotte students participated in Asia Pacific Rim University (APRU) the Open Dialogues for the first time. This was the 6th cohort of Open Dialogues.

In collaboration with Tecnológico de Monterrey, the 6^th Cohort brought together 61 students from 14 universities across 12 economies, reflecting the geographic breadth and diversity of the APRU network. Participants represented institutions across Asia, Australasia, and the Americas, with additional perspectives contributed by two guest institutions. Three UNC Charlotte undergraduate students joined peers from around the world on dialogues to explore AI, mental health and culture.

Hear what our students say about their participation in the Open Dialogue:

What I enjoyed most about the Open Dialogue format was the structure and organization beforehand. I liked that there was a platform where I could see who was participating, where they were from, the discussion questions, and even the instructor biographies before the sessions began. I also enjoyed seeing universities represented from different parts of the world because it made the experience feel more international and connected.

Keylee

I particularly enjoyed the small-group breakout sessions. Having the opportunity to hear directly from university students around the world was a unique and valuable experience. Topics such as AI and mental health are increasingly affecting people globally, and prior to this exchange, I had very limited exposure to how other countries and cultures were approaching these issues.

Andrea

As someone interested in international affairs and cross-cultural engagement, this experience deepened my understanding of how technology is shaped by culture and public policy rather than existing as a neutral tool. Hearing students from different countries discuss AI showed me that attitudes toward privacy, education, mental health, and government regulation vary significantly across societies. As AI continues to expand globally, I have become more interested in how international cooperation can address the ethical and political challenges that accompany emerging technologies.

Jamie

If you are interested in having students participating in future APRU Open Dialogue, please contact Dr. Yongling Gorke at: ygorke@charlotte.edu