Summer School : Inspiring international exchange
This year, 21 students from Great Britain, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Romania, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, the Czech Republic and French-speaking Switzerland took part in the Summer School courses from PH Zurich.
In addition to attending seminars and modules such as “Special Needs and Inclusive Education in Switzerland and in a Global Context”, “Into the Story: Teaching and Learning with Drama” and “The Digital Transformation of the Classroom”, the students were offered an exciting supporting programme that gave various insights into Swiss culture. Not to be missed were a visit to a cheese dairy and a chocolate factory and a trip to the mountains.
Eveline Glauser from the International Office coordinated and organised the Summer School 2023. In an interview, she explains what the Summer School means for PH Zurich and what the participants thought of the programme.
Eveline Glauser, what is the Summer School and what is its aim?
The Summer School is an offering for our partner universities. Students benefit from an attractive range of topics that are also of international relevance and gain an insight into the Swiss education system. Since the Summer School is module-based, students have the option of choosing to attend for one to three weeks. This also enables students who are unable to complete a full semester abroad, e.g. for financial or family reasons, or because of different academic calendars or lack of credit transfer possibilities, to complete a mobility stay at PH Zurich. In addition, the Summer School gives students the opportunity to network internationally.
What are the positive effects for PH Zurich as a result of the implementation of the programme?
The Summer School is one of several international programmes offered by PH Zurich that increases the university’s visibility and supports the internationalisation of PH Zurich. Mobility takes place through exchange agreements on a reciprocal basis. The Summer School therefore helps secure exchange places for our students at our partner universities over the long term. The Summer School modules are also open to PHZH students, who can therefore also benefit from making international contacts and networking opportunities.
Which activity did the participants enjoy most?
The international students were enthusiastic about the school visits, discussions and teaching staff. In terms of the supporting programme, the students liked the excursion to Rigi and Fronalpstock.
What do the students take home after these weeks?
Students take tools and inspiration home. They will be able to apply certain inputs in their future careers. They will also have fond memories of our university, Zurich and Switzerland thanks to the accompanying programme.
