During the summer semester, the university launched an ideas competition calling for innovative concepts for the future of teaching and learning. The best proposals have now been recognised.
From learning in the great outdoors to high-tech lecture theatres: the University of Oldenburg today recognised five ideas for the future of teaching and learning. The ideas competition invited students and teaching staff to submit original concepts and novel approaches that would bring about lasting improvements to teaching and learning. A total of 42 proposals were received, covering topics such as new forms of collaboration, the use of modern media, and the integration of research and teaching. The competition was sponsored by Prof. Dr Verena Pietzner, Vice-President for Student Affairs, Teaching and International Relations.
In the ‘Teaching Staff’ category, the first prize, worth 1,000 euros, went to the chemist Prof. Dr Katharina Al-Shamery. Her idea: The lecture on the theoretical foundations of thermodynamics is enriched with artistic elements, further promoting collaboration between students of natural sciences and arts subjects on the dual-subject Bachelor’s programme. The jury felt that this particular form of interdisciplinary collaboration offered plenty of inspiration for other subjects too.
Computing Science student Sovanna Chhoeung submitted a proposal for a lecture theatre that can be used both virtually and in person. The aim: to adapt teaching and learning to different life situations without those involved losing their personal connection with one another. The jury recognised this “forward-looking concept” with second place, for which Chhoeung received 500 euros.
Moving classes outdoors
The idea of moving learning outdoors was put forward by students Jule Reese (two-subject Bachelor’s) and Jasmin Behnke (Marine Environmental Sciences), as well as Thore Eilers and Hilko Rosenau (Master of Education): Reese and Behnke proposed an outdoor learning garden, whilst Eilers and Rosenau submitted a concept entitled ‘Uni im Grünen’. They suggest creating opportunities on the campus to move lectures and group sessions out into nature. Both entries were awarded first place and 600 euros each. Second place went to Leonie Neidert and Gvantsa Khutsishvili, both of whom are studying for a Master’s in Art and Media Studies. They impressed the jury with their idea for a digital database of course materials for students and received 300 euros in prize money.
Vice-President Verena Pietzner was delighted with the results of the competition: “It was important to us that everyone could take part and let their ideas flow. The result is a wealth of inspiration and concrete starting points,” she explained at the awards ceremony, where the winners had the opportunity to present their ideas. In addition to Pietzner, the jury included Prof. Dr Martin Fränzle, Vice-President for Research, Transfer and Digitalisation, a student representative and members of the Centre for Higher Education Didactics. The judging panel assessed the submitted proposals according to the criteria of benefit and sustainability, novelty and originality, as well as scope or particular need.
The ideas competition was funded by the Oldenburg University Society (UGO).
