Virtual Exchange
About the programme
In cooperation with Soliya, the Career Centre offers students the opportunity to acquire intercultural competencies in a digital setting. In 2023, there will be Global Circles that address a range of societal challenges.
Framework
This course offers the opportunity to discuss current socio-political challenges with students from universities in different countries. Participants will not only develop an understanding of global issues and train their critical thinking skills, they will also acquire transversal skills such as a sense of responsibility, active listening and presentation skills.
Over a period of two weeks, students from different countries will meet online in a safe digital setting to exchange insights into different cultures and different mentalities. The discussions will be led by facilitators and will be held in English, but participants do not have to have a more than average command of the English language.
The live sessions of Soliya are embedded into the framework of a Career Centre event, at which the particpants receive an introduction to Virtual Exchange and intercultural competence. For the potential analysis, students are asked to attend our seminar or the Offene Einführung in die Potenzialanalyse (open introductory course on potential analysis).
In addition, participants will gather at the Career Centre for a feedback session after their live sessions to reflect together and share experiences.
Compensation
The courses can be booked through the ASQ pool. Students can earn up to 3 ECTS points. You will also be able to take the Virtual Exchange as part of your Professional Skills Certificate. In addition, you will receive a certificate of attendance from soliya, attesting to the acquisition of various competences during the course. Participation in Global Circles prepares students for the scholarship application and selection process as well as for a stay abroad.
Further information
Engage in discussion and connect with people from other countries and cultures
Learn from and with academic experts
Improve your language and communication skills
Develop skills that are essential to working in a virtual and intercultural environment
Boost your self-confidence, capacity for empathy and intellectual curiosity
Become part of the international Virtual Exchange network
During the first face-to-face session, you will receive an introduction to the idea behind the Virtual Exchange programme and learn how to identify your personal skill set.
The second session will be devoted to sharing experiences with your fellow participants and reflecting on the online sessions and the digital and intercultural skills you have acquired.
If you are unable to attend a face-to-face session, we can schedule a one-on-one session for another date.
Facilitators moderate the discussion in the talking groups.
Remaining neutral in the discussion, they try to facilitate an authentic and respectful dialogue between the participants. While they do not engage in the discussion itself and remain in the background, their overall aim is to ensure that everybody has a chance to speak and be heard.
Furthermore, facilitators are responsible for creating a safe and effeective learning environment. The training of facilitators includes the development of competences such as active listening, summarising, rephrasing and creation of group dynamics. Facilitator are constantly training reflection, multi-tasking and team work.
Click here to learn more about the job of a facilitator and training opportunities.
