Motivation for participating in the workshop
My main motivation was to explore different methods of community engagement and to further develop our approach to community-based learning and research. The workshop aligned well with the learning process and goals of our International Class in the SEDev department (formerly EEM) and strengthened our commitment to lifelong learning and effective education. I was also drawn by the opportunity to expand our network in Ireland to identify potential future locations for our International Class.
Preparation and tips
For a smooth and cost-effective trip, it’s best to book hotel and flight tickets well in advance. I recommend purchasing all tickets online, as this not only saves time but is also cheaper than buying them locally. As a non-EU citizen, I had to apply for a visa at the Irish embassy in Berlin.
Ireland has excellent long-distance bus connections, which are comfortable and frequent. However, for the route from Dublin to Limerick, I recommend taking the train. Along the way, you get breathtaking views of the landscape and avoid traffic jams or technical problems, which some other participants reported. For me, the train ride was very pleasant.
Food in Ireland can be quite expensive. You should expect to pay around €20 per meal, not including drinks. Accommodation is also a bit pricey, averaging €120–150 per night. Ryanair and Aer Lingus offer direct flights from Hamburg to Dublin once daily, six days a week.
And finally, I found Limerick to be warmer than Flensburg – a pleasant surprise!
The workshop on site
The program was well-organized, with an excellent balance of lectures, activities, excursions, and opportunities for networking. The colleagues at the University of Limerick (UL) were very hospitable, friendly, and helpful, making collaboration a pleasure. The participants from various countries, including Slovakia, Croatia, Greece, Cyprus, France, and South Africa, were likewise open and welcoming, fostering a lively exchange of ideas and experiences. One of the presentations featured the project “blau:pause” from Europa-Universität Flensburg, which captivated the audience and showcased EUF’s community engagement efforts.
Conclusion
Overall, the program offered valuable insights into how universities can enhance their research and teaching through community engagement and promote sustainability in the research and learning process.
The new knowledge and network will help me continue improving our degree program and offer our students an even more engaging way of learning.