It may sound simple: bring together a few teachers from different countries and let them design a course. But in reality, it takes more than that. “You need to align everything. Policy, assessments, logistics,” explains Silvester Draaijer, programme manager at the VU Centre for Teaching & Learning (VU CTL), who also co-leads the Aurora work package on Educational Hubs. “That’s why we had education experts present who understand the practical side. Think of expertise in funding for travel and accommodation for teachers and students, but also accreditation specialists.”
The sixty participants collaborated in diverse teams, working on everything from concrete courses to exploring the deeper meaning of international collaboration. “Topics ranged from AI and inclusion to citizenship. It was an intense few days full of new ideas, insights and discussions,” says Draaijer.
Aurora: what is it again?
Aurora is a network of nine European universities, including Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, that collaborate on education and research with societal impact. The alliance focuses on themes like sustainability, inclusion and digital literacy, aiming to develop joint educational initiatives that prepare students for tomorrow’s world.
Embracing different educational cultures
Designing education across borders is promising, but not always easy. “There are differences in teaching cultures, pace, and visions on pedagogy and technology. And we aim for innovative, inter- and transdisciplinary education, which brings its own challenges,” says Draaijer. “But those differences also help you look beyond your own discipline or national context.”
For VU Amsterdam student-employee Laura Bonizzoni, who helped organize the event, those differences led to valuable conversations. “Everyone came from a different educational background and had their own ideas about teaching. But in the end, we all wanted the same thing: to improve education for students.”
Key topics: AI and digital literacy
The themes that emerged during the retreat couldn’t have been more timely. “Artificial intelligence and digital literacy were key topics,” says Draaijer. “Not just the technology itself, but also ethical questions, responsibility, and the role of the teacher.
Bonizzoni adds: “It was inspiring to see how open teachers and education experts were to new ideas and how they’re trying to help students become more aware of their role in a constantly changing world.”
VU education, shared with Europe
The first Aurora courses are already in development. “These are co-designed with other European universities,” Draaijer explains. “Topics include sustainability, health and wellbeing, diversity and digital literacy. Students from different institutions can participate. Sometimes it’s a VU Amsterdam course open to Aurora students, sometimes it’s a joint programme with guest lectures exchanged across universities.”
Want to learn more about Aurora or join the next retreat?
Contact Esmee Paques, Aurora Institutional Coordinator, at e.m.paques@vu.nl.