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Participants from ten universities

The 21 international participants represented the following universities: KTH (Sweden), TU Graz (Austria), Telecom Paris (France), Kaunas University of Technology (Lithuania), Kryvyi Rih National University (Ukraine), Kryvyi Rih State Pedagogical University (Ukraine), Kryvyi Rih State University of Economics and Technologies (Ukraine), Lutsk National Technical University (Ukraine), and Zaporizhzhia National University (Ukraine). 

The active participation of 11 staff members from Ukrainian universities added a distinct and valuable dimension to the days, enriching the discussions, and overall experience for all participants and showcased the commitment of Ukrainian institutions to engage with the wider European academic community.

The first day of the event aimed to provide the participants with an overall understanding of Aalto University. The participants gained insights inÄûÃʵ¼º½'s strategy and educational approach and featured thought-provoking discussions about the challenges faced by universities in today's turbulent world. The campus tour, in the end of the day provided the participants with a glimpse into university facilities and learning environment.

Second day focusing on digital teaching and learning and HR

The second day was thematic, topics focusing on digital teaching and learning and HR.

"Our programme intended to picture the hands-on pedagogical and digital learning services provided ÄûÃʵ¼º½ teachers, showcasing real situations where teachers and staff directly benefitted from educational technology and pedagogical support. We approched the topic via different angles, e.g. with teacher testimonials, guided tours in learning spaces and AV-production facilities, a workshop and expert talks. The reception was extremely positive, as the participants could both relate ÄûÃʵ¼º½'s examples and reflect about it in light of their own experiences. The atmosphere was open, participative and inspiring to attendees, guest speakers and hosts alike", comments Veruscka Xavier Filgueira, Specialist in Digital Learning, Teacher Services

Centering around the integration

Our theme revolved around the onboarding of international staff and support for spouses and families. Aalto colleagues shared their approach to ensuring a smooth transition and integration of international colleagues into the university community. 

Promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion was another significant topic as well as current strategic development targets in HR. The importance of language guidelines and its renewal process was discussed in relation to fostering effective communication, learning, and teaching. The significance of local language acquisition in facilitating integration, improving professional opportunities, and enhancing cultural understanding was also discussed. 

"The workshop was the highlight of the day. Visiting colleagues and Aalto staff collaborated to identify common challenges and share best practices in onboarding the international staff to their universities. Through interactive sessions, participants exchanged experiences, discussed potential solutions, and gained insights from diverse perspectives", says Eeva Lyytikäinen, Specialist, International Mobility.
 

Erasmus Staff Training Days at Aalto University (event)