Erasmus celebrates its 25th anniversary

"It has widened our knowledge of teaching and learning"

Sirje Virkus has been involved in Erasmus programmes since it became available in Estonia in 1999. Starting slowly, the involvement of students and staff has continued to increase. ‘One important outcome of the mobility scheme has been the very visible change in the department as it has increasingly become international.’ With partnership arrangements in more than 15 countries, teaching staff can spend time lecturing in other countries. Taking advantage of these opportunities has widened her knowledge in many professional areas and increased her awareness of the teaching and learning methods used in partner institutions.

Sirje Virkus has been involved in Erasmus programmes since it became available in Estonia in 1999. Starting slowly, the involvement of students and staff has continued to increase. ‘One important outcome of the mobility scheme has been the very visible change in the department as it has increasingly become international.’ With partnership arrangements in more than 15 countries, teaching staff can spend time lecturing in other countries. Taking advantage of these opportunities has widened her knowledge in many professional areas and increased her awareness of the teaching and learning methods used in partner institutions.

This approach includes the development of virtual mobility. ‘As most students at the university work at the same time as completing their degree, it can be financially difficult for them to study abroad. Virtual seminars give students an opportunity to see what it could be like.’ For those who do study abroad, she sees returning students as ‘more confident individuals with better language and international skills.’

 

Home institution:

Tallinn University, Estonia (Tallinna Ülikool, Eesti)

Field of study/job title:

Lecturer, Erasmus Mundus Departmental Coordinator

Year became active in Erasmus

1999