Aligning with the aim of EPOKA University on fostering international collaboration and academic excellence, a series of training sessions were held by TU Dresden to all consortium partners under the COWEB Erasmus+ project. The training sessions conducted during February and March 2024 aimed to empower both staff and students with valuable skills and insights, aligning with the university's commitment to holistic education.

Academic staff across the consortium showed high interest with up to 90 participants attending the sessions. The staff training sessions focused on enhancing teaching methodologies and preparing academic staff of EPOKA University to deliver the Local VCL modules. Experts from TUD facilitated the sessions by providing participants with innovative pedagogical approaches and strategies to enhance student learning outcomes.

Staff Training 1, February 20, 13:00-16:00

Introduction to Virtual Collaborative Learning

Topics covered:

·         Design Dimensions of Virtual Collaborative Learning

·         The Role of E-Tutors

·         Realistic case study design for Virtual Mobility activities

·         Elements and importance of online learning platforms

·         Application and illustration possibilities of Social Learning Analytics

·         Integration of tool usage

Staff Training 2, February 26, 13:00-16:00

Designing Virtual Collaborative Learning

Topics covered:

·         Build up Learning platform channels for VCL.

·         Choose collaborative tools for VCL.

·         Connect existing tasks with tools.

·         Selection / acquisition of E-Tutors

·         E-Tutor tasks & responsibilities

·         Formative Feedback in VCL

·         VCL Onboarding & Group contract

Staff Training 3, March 6, 13:00-16:00

Final Presentation of VCLs

Topics covered:

·         Presentation of VCL modules “updated” during the consultation phase.

·         Feedback from experts for final adjustments

These training sessions were designed to prepare and develop didactical teaching and training materials, laying the foundation for the Local VCL course activities that each Partner Institution will implement during this semester with their students. For more information about the COWEB Erasmus+ project and upcoming initiatives, please visit https://www.cowebproject.eu/.