Concept and sample modules for a centralised intercultural online-training for European outgoing students

[Sample Scenarios] [Examples] [Elaborate Scenarios]

Background:
1.) In their feed-back forms Erasmus and Leonardo students often attribute any failures during
their stay abroad (study or internship) to a lack of intercultural preparation before and during
their stay.
2.) International offices often do not have the time or resources to provide pre-departure training
for all outgoing students as they are preoccupied with the very complex administrative aspects
of the exchange (visas, accommodation, scholarship forms, etc.).
3.) Most sending institutions in Europe do not have sufficient numbers of outgoing students to
provide ongoing preparatory training throughout the academic year.

This paper aims to provide ideas, concepts and specific examples for a centralised approach to
intercultural online training for outgoing students before and during their stay abroad. The idea is
that the students can benefit from such courses starting anytime up to three months prior to their
departure and continuing during their stay. The online training is designed to connect European
students through the new media in an interactive peer-learning community which favours
explorative and experiential learning.

Proposed course structure:
The establishment of a central (European) virtual campus for the intercultural training of outgoing
students (e.g. Leonardo, Erasmus, etc.) in accordance with the following guiding principles: