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Mobility of higher education students and staff supported by internal policy funds (KA131-HED) - Coordinator: UNIWERSYTET LODZKI

2022-1-PL01-KA131-HED-0000532472022Mobility of higher education students and stafffinalized
Countries: PL · Grant: €1,147,405

Objectives

The implementation of the mobility project is a continuation of the long-term policy of the University of Lodz, which assumes easier access for staff members and students to international mobilities, opportunities to study and acquire competences abroad. The internationalization of the experience of the academic community allows for the formation of an open and tolerant attitude among students and staff members, both scientific and administrative. As a result, project participants can develop their skills in diverse, international environments, which is extremely valuable in the global world that we face today. In addition to long-term study mobilities that have been carried out for years, the University of Lodz actively implemented short-term mobility as part of Blended Intensive Programmes, which align with the university's strategic aims. Opening to innovation in the project, the University of Lodz opened the possibility of admitting and short-term education of international students during the implementation of 4 intensive programs. In addition, the project is aligned with range of activities of the University of Lodz, which are related to Erasmus+ projects. It is because of the mobilities that the academic staff members are given an opportunity to get to know new institutions, while also establishing cooperation with international universities. This often leads to the later joint implementation of projects for strategic partnerships, both as a partner and as a coordinator. These projects further integrate the University community both within the organization and internationally. Cooperation with international universities allows for the exchange of experiences and best practices, which contributes to improving the quality of education and research. The main objective of the project was and currently is to develop the competences of participants of mobilities, both professional and social, which build a pro-European attitude. Outgoing students are "craving" information about the culture of other countries and the local labor market, researchers have the opportunity to gain experience in conducting classes in a new environment and gain or supplement subject knowledge. Administrative staff members travelling for mobility have the opportunity to work on their soft and hard skills, for example when participating in the international Staff Training Week. Such experiences are invaluable in the context of professional and personal development. As for mobilities, not only do they help with the acquisition of new knowledge and cultural competences, but they also open the doors to self-development of linguistic competences. Participants develop not only their knowledge of English, but also other European languages, such as Spanish or Italian. This is later often used when hosting exchange participants from other countries. Many Erasmus+ visitors who come to Poland speak Spanish. It is easier for newly arrived students or staff members to find themselves in a country where hosts speak their native language. Thanks to this, the adaptation process is faster and less stressful, which promotes better integration and cooperation. The experience of mobility is conducive to the development of intercultural cooperation skills. International classes and internships shape valuable staff member qualities in the student and graduate community of the University of Lodz. As a result, participants are better prepared to enter the increasingly fast-moving labor market. Intercultural cooperation is crucial in the current times, where borders between countries are becoming increasingly fluid and the ability to work in international teams is highly valued by employers. Another crucial aim of the project was to improve the overall workshop among the academic and administrative staff. This in effect increases the quality of education, as well as the effectiveness of administrative services and makes the educational offer more diverse. In this way, the University of Lodz can attract even more students and staff members from abroad, which contributes to the further internationalization of the university. The increase of international students and staff members fosters a multicultural academic environment that is rich in diverse perspectives and experiences.

Project partners (1)