The article analyses Wen-Ying Tsai’s pioneering interactive sculptures and argues that these works act psychologically as well as audio-visually on spectators, in ways that elicit their empathy and establish a strong sense of intimacy during their encounter. Tsai’s ambitious kinetic artworks are considered in relation to prevailing theories and practices within cybernetics, particularly the ideas of its founding father, Norbert Wiener (1894-1964). Interesting parallels are drawn between the two individuals, their lives, personalities and beliefs.

This practitioner research in education paper is based on the experiences of two English language educators taking part in a collaborative online international learning project, otherwise known as COIL. Synchronous and asynchronous teaching methods were used for English language learners to meet and work with students from other countries. The collaboration took place virtually between two institutions of higher education, located on different sides of the globe, namely Mexico and Singapore.

“I suppose people are just not willing to go that far, because, “At the moment I barely know you. I’ll be nice to you on a superficial level, but it will be too much to go beyond that.” And people have these perceptions that when they see me, “Oh, she’s doing fine,” especially my teachers. ... I usually feel left out in my class. (Participant 15)”. Having arisen from personal encounters of teaching at tertiary level and the challenges of catering to learners presenting a broad spectrum of educational needs, I have become increasingly aware of the diversity of students seeking assistance.