Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.17559/TV-20160308210632

Lessons from intensive educational experiences for ICT students in multinational settings

Luis Fernández orcid.org/0000-0003-0778-0073 ; Universidad de Alcalá, Department of Computer Sciences, Ctra. Madrid-Barcelona, km. 33,6, 28871 Alcála de Henares, Madrid, Spain
José Amelio Medina orcid.org/0000-0003-3359-4952 ; Universidad de Alcalá, Department of Computer Sciences, Ctra. Madrid-Barcelona, km. 33,6, 28871 Alcála de Henares, Madrid, Spain
María Teresa Villalba de Benito orcid.org/0000-0003-0443-5979 ; Universidad Europea de Madrid, Department of Computer Science, C/Tajo s/n, 28673 Villaviciosa de Odón, Madrid, Spain
Sanjay Misra orcid.org/0000-0002-3556-9331 ; Atilim University, Ankara, Turkey / Covenant University, Canaanland, Ota, Nigeria

Abstract

Real internationalization of education is the current challenge for students, teachers and universities in Europe after assuming the implementation of the EHEA (European Higher Education Area). The Erasmus programme has been playing a key role in exposing stakeholders to European internationalization. Although the large global figures of the programme are frequently analyzed, it is important to study the effects of the participation in exchange programs on students and teachers. Erasmus Intensive programs enable a closer look at the daily experience of students. In this article, we analyse the effects of intensive international programs on participants' perceptions and attitudes referred to international and multicultural working environments. Data for the analysis were collected through several experiences where ICT students were involved in intensive multinational programs. Results from 125 students using pre- and post- experience questionnaires show interesting benefits of participating in intensive experiences before starting longer or more challenging activities: they feel more motivated to be engaged in semester long staying or professional work abroad, less worries about how to work in multicultural settings, increment in self-confidence, etc.

Keywords

Bologna process; Erasmus program; higher education system; information base; students in informatics; study conditions

Hrčak ID:

185444

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/185444

Publication date:

31.7.2017.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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