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Article published In: Study abroad and the Erasmus+ programme in Europe: Perspectives on language and intercultural learning
Edited by Anne Marie Devlin
[Study Abroad Research in Second Language Acquisition and International Education 5:1] 2020
► pp. 69–88

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Supporting Erasmus students through integrating reflective practices in the curriculum

The CONNECT project

 | University of Limerick
 | University of Limerick
Published online: 24 February 2020
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/sar.18006.hof
Abstract
There is considerable evidence that suitable preparation for the Erasmus experience can make a significant difference to students. Often, however, institutions have to battle to provide in-depth pre-departure training, and re-entry events or training are too seldom available. Following Erasmus there is rarely space in the curriculum of the home university for reflection, assessment and the integration of the experiences and multi-faceted learning that took place abroad. This article argues that the challenge is therefore to integrate meaningful reflections and assessment into more traditional modules, such as literature-based ones. Accordingly, this article presents some options of how to integrate re-entry reflections in the form of a module on travel literature as well as a voluntary re-entry module that can be offered to returning students irrespective of their course of study. Components of the Erasmus+ CONNECT training programme serve as an example of training material.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Literature review
    • 2.1Reflective learning: History and definitions
    • 2.2Aims and benefits of reflective learning
    • 2.3Models and stages of reflection
    • 2.4Methods of reflective learning
    • 2.5Reflective learning and study abroad
  • 3.Options for supporting Erasmus students and promoting reflective practice
    • 3.1CONNECT: An intercultural learning network
    • 3.2Integrating reflective practice into an existing module
      • 3.2.1Student feedback
  • 4.Conclusion
  • References
References (54)
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