In the wake of restored social interactions post-COVID-19, outbound trips have blossomed, representing a valuable opportunity for THEi students to engage in international learning. Outbound trips play a pivotal role in enhancing student learning by providing immersive, out-of-classroom experiences. Immersing in foreign cultures offers opportunities for intellectual and social growth, foster communication, interpersonal skills and team work, all of which contribute to holistic development and for building work-ready graduates. These experiences not only enrich academic understanding but also prepare students to navigate a diverse global landscape.
This research examined the learning outcomes and reflections of 11 THEi students who participated in the International Olympiads in November 2024. The primarily focus was to assess how exposure to advanced technologies impacts educational outcomes and personal development, including the cultivation of transferable skills and the enhancement of learning within their own programme.
The research involves two instruments with quantitative and qualitative methodologies were used for analysis. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires measuring students’ self-perceived rating on the quality of the exchange activities as well as acquisition of transferable skills and overall program satisfaction. Qualitative data were gathered through students’ self-reflection journal and focus group discussions, providing deeper insights into perceptions, challenges, and personal growth during the trip.
Preliminary findings indicated significant improvements in students’ understanding of Blockchain and A.I. The majority of respondents expressed interest in working aboard and starting their own businesses after graduation. The intellectual environment of the International Olympiads was pivotal in enhancing educational outcomes. Mentorship and collaborative opportunities with international participants were factors contributing to successful learning experiences and should be further strengthened in future trips.
Acknowledgements:
The outbound experience was subsided by VTC Student Development Foundation: International Blockchain Olympiad x DigiQuest Amsterdam 2024 (2324-EA-151; 2324-O-A-151) and supported by the Königsberger Bridges Institute (KBI), an EU non-profit organisation, and the InHolland University of Applied Sciences (Hogeschool InHolland).
The work described in this paper was partially supported by a grant from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China (23-0833, Cohort 23-14)