While I was in Germany, June 2024, visiting JLU Giessen as an Erasmus+ Staff Mobility recipient I was invited to present a workshop as part of the QuiS-Flex-Meta project. I did this virtually when back in Australia to an audience of round 40 participants. This included representatives from the Hessian Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and the Arts, Vice Presidents for Teaching and study coordinators from several Hessian universities. Of note is close cooperation under the banner of the Hessen-Queensland-Programme.

My presentation title: “Flexibly Glocalizing Higher Education: Enabling Student Choice through Online Global Collaborative Learning”

Abstract: This presentation showcases an innovative research project that explores embedding flexible online global collaborative learning opportunities into university curricula. Drawing from concepts like collaborative learning, communities of practice, and glocalization, it examines how flexible learning modes can foster equitable access, co-creation of knowledge, and student choice across institutions. Participants will gain insights into current practices, strategies for developing intercultural awareness and global competencies, and a framework for designing flexible global collaboration using appropriate technologies. By embracing an interdisciplinary approach, this research envisions higher education where students have multiple pathways to engage in meaningful global partnerships, ultimately achieving essential graduate attributes.

As always I provided the key reasons why we should have flexible approaches to global collaboration, discussed the Global Collaborator Mindset in detail, and shared objectives for the future of higher education. In terms of practical approaches I revisited the ‘7 Steps to Flatten the Classroom’ and provided concrete examples for curriculum integration and further advice on how to make this happen.

In conclusion I shared my current research focus on exploring curriculum-based global collaboration in higher education and encouraged participation.