This study investigates the role of team charters in enhancing cultural competence within international online learning settings. A Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) experience, involving 194 students from universities in Mexico, Ecuador, Chile, and Spain, was analyzed. During the second week of the icebreaker, the team charter activity was introduced to enhance interpersonal connections, encourage commitment, and manage conflict. Data was gathered through peer reviews of team charters and a student survey. Key findings reveal that team charters were crucial in: 1. Establishing clear communication standards 2. Defining team values and goals aligned with cultural diversity 3. Promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity 4. Creating an inclusive environment 5. Facilitating effective use of virtual collaboration tools. Results showed enhancements in team organization, communication, and conflict management. Early planning and equitable participation were linked to better outcomes and a reduced workload burden. The study offers empirical evidence that team charters can effectively bridge cultural differences in online international settings, optimizing group dynamics and enhancing collaborative skills. Limitations include cross-sectional design, potential retrospective bias, and limited generalizability. Future research should incorporate pre-post designs, control groups, and explore the mechanisms and moderators of team charter effectiveness in fostering cultural competence.
