Christine Michalek
The three challenge and case-based modules are currently being implemented for the first time. Some universities have already finished the first round of implementation, some are currently teaching the modules and some are still in the planning process. Following, we will provide an overview of the current status and how the lockdown due to the corona virus is affecting our progress.
What has happened so far?
Kaunas University of Technology and Technische Universität Berlin have successfully completed the first implementation of their module. Both teaching experiences took place in the beginning of 2020 as a joint effort with guest lecturers from partner universities. Kaunas was supported by researches from TU Dresden, and Berlin received assistance from University of Ljubljana.
According to the attending students, having different researches presenting their own research topics brings great value to the course. They also approve of the structure, content and materials of the modules. Being asked for areas of improvement, students pointed out that they would like to participate more often and that some topics might need adjustments according to their level of difficulty.
This will be further assessed during the still ongoing implementation at other universities and improved before teaching the modules again.
How do we manage with corona?
Université de Lorraine and Tallinn Technical University just started teaching their module when universities all over Europe were shut down due to the corona virus. They mastered the challenge, and both moved the module online and are currently still teaching it.
TU Dresden and University of Ljubljana are planning their module implementation at the moment. In Ljubljana, the module is scheduled to take place as an intensive course in September. Depending on the situation and travel restrictions then, the module will be thought either in classroom or online as well.
Although the corona virus is challenging the implementation and testing of our three challenge and case-based modules, we are still able to teach them. Moreover, the European SMAGRINET approach with guest lectures during the modules can be applied during the online sessions as well. All three modules will be implemented during this first test phase and we are looking forward to the students’ feedback!
