Knowledge Creation Teams (KCT)
Knowledge Creation Teams (KCT) play a crucial role in addressing the evolving needs of CHARM-EU. KCTs are tasked with identifying new challenges, exploring research and educational topics, and proposing innovative initiatives to the Academic Council. Their contributions are essential in developing and implementing CHARM-EU activities. This article describes the activities of the KCT on Intercultural Awareness, including the creation of new educational programmes, collaborative projects, and various other initiatives.
Progress in Intercultural Awareness
The meetings of the KCT on intercultural awareness commenced in spring 2024. These meetings primarily involved brainstorming sessions and the presentation of diverse ideas. A dedicated core team worked steadily during the summer and early autumn to develop a light version of an intercultural preparatory course. This course was finalised in October 2024 and was presented at the CHARM-EU Annual Conference in early November. The full KCT will continue its efforts throughout Autumn 2024 and Spring 2025, with plans to prepare an extended version of the course.
Intercultural Preparatory Course
The first version of the intercultural preparatory course will provide essential intercultural training to the over 10,000 students from CHARM-EU universities that go on exchange per year. This course is designed to prepare students for their exchanges and enhance their awareness of intercultural dynamics. The main idea of the model is to understand cultural structures that include (but are not limited to): time, space, verbal and non-verbal communication, categorization and stereotyping, among others. The light version consists of a recorded lecture lasting approximately one hour, which will be accessible via the CHARM-EU website. This format allows students to engage with the material at their convenience.
Extended version of the course
In 2025, an extended version of the course will be launched in tandem with the light version. This extended offering will consist of three components:
- Preparing students for their mobility experiences, focusing on intercultural learning, intercultural reflection and intercultural competencies.
- Implementing surveys before and after the mobility period to assess students’ intercultural competencies.
- Assigning reflective tasks before and during the mobility period, encouraging students to contemplate their experiences abroad. These reflections will be discussed with peers and potentially with academics.
Both the short and extended versions of the pre-exchange intercultural preparatory course will be developed and delivered by CHARM-EU academics specializing in intercultural communication and related fields. These academics will collaborate within the KCT to ensure the success of both versions of the course.
Impact of the activities
Students will have a unique opportunity to engage with courses led by CHARM-EU educators, allowing them to deepen their understanding of the initiative. Participants will gain valuable insights into the CHARM-EU programme, enhancing their academic experience. Additionally, international offices will be able to offer a course tailored for all outgoing students, which will complement the practical information they provide. Erasmus coordinators will have the capacity to reference this course in their Erasmus+ final reports, ensuring that it is recognised within their academic documentation. Furthermore, CHARM-EU staff members who are participating in teacher or staff exchanges will also have the chance to join the lectures or courses, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Through these initiatives, the KCT on intercultural awareness is committed to fostering intercultural awareness among students, equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in diverse environments. The journey towards enhancing intercultural education is ongoing, and the KCT is eager to continue its impactful work in the future.
