Resume
An important, albeit unexplored dimension in higher education concerns the impact, role and relevance of traineeships abroad. A research was set up based on a desktop research of participants reports, a self-assessment survey and interviews with students. The research took place during Covid-19, this will probably had an impact on the outputs.
Students who have been on a traineeship abroad did not only strengthened their personal and professional competencies, but also improved their study results and employability. Thanks to the traineeship, most students consider themselves a European citizen and a citizen of the world.
It is noticeable that the impact on respondents who did a traineeship for four months or more is more significant than on those who stayed abroad for only two or three months.
Conclusions
- Participants highly appreciated the traineeships. It has been a unique experience that has enriched their personal and professional lives and expanded their horizons beyond belief. Thanks to the traineeship, most students consider themselves a European citizen and a citizen of the world. They want to contribute to society's development in their own country, in Europe and even internationally.
- All participants agreed that they acquired practical professional competences and had become self-reliant, resilient and independent during their mobility. It is noticeable that the impact of a traineeship for (more than) four months is more significant than a shorter mobility.
- The majority of the respondents indicate that the traineeship had a positive impact on their study results. 35% of the interviewees state that they have decided to continue studying thanks to the traineeship.
- Two third of the graduate respondents pointed out that the traineeship abroad had improved their employability, the majority of the respondents is more open to a job abroad. Due to the traineeship abroad, the respondents have a better idea of their professional goals and ambitions.
Recommendations
- Make sure the learning agreement is detailed enough and the students knows who to contact in case there is a misunderstanding in the goals to reach.
- The traineeships impact on competencies, studies and employment opportunities increases with duration. If possible, internships should last for at least three months.
- It is remarkable that only few students from pre-service teacher education are mobile during their traineeships.
- The Europass Mobility Document is more likely associated with VET, nearly half of the students received one. More effort could be made in raising the awareness of the use of Europass in higher education.
Downloads
- Executive summary Impact of Student Mobility Placements 29MB / pdf Download
More information?
Looking for more information about this project? Get in touch: info@epos-vlaanderen.be.
