Day 1: Welcome and Introduction
The study visit commenced on the 24th of June with a warm welcome from FH-Prof. Mag. Dr. Doris Kiendl, Head of the Institute for International Management and Entrepreneurship at FH Joanneum. This opening speech highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and innovation in management education.
Following this, Prof. (Dr.) Satish Modh from VES Institute of Management gave the opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of the partnership between FH Joanneum and VESIM in driving forward digital and inclusive education practices.
Mag. Birgit Hernády, Head of International Relations Office at FH Joanneum, provided an overview of the university’s international programs and partnerships, setting the stage for deeper insights into the Austrian model of applied sciences.
The morning continued with an engaging session led by Mag. Dr. Rupert Beinhauer, who outlined the universities of applied sciences’ approach in Austria, particularly focusing on their orientation towards industry collaborations and research-driven education. After a brief coffee break, participants enjoyed a lunch at the FH Joanneum cafeteria.
The afternoon session was dedicated to exploring FH Joanneum’s didactical approach, focusing on the digitalization and modernization of teaching practices. FH-Prof. Mag. Dr. Birgit Phillips MSc, Head of Higher Education Didactics and AI, delivered this insightful session, shedding light on the university’s efforts to integrate AI and digital tools into the learning environment.
The day concluded with a brief wrap-up and reflection session.
Day 2: Strategic Planning for Centers of Excellence
The second day of the visit focused on strategic management and operational planning for Centers of Excellence. Mag. Dr. Rupert Beinhauer and Ligia Pasqualin MA led a workshop that guided participants through the drafting of strategic planning documents, providing valuable insights into the intricacies of establishing and managing centers of excellence.
Following this, DI (FH) Andrea Maria Kling, Programme Administrator, presented the Global Business Program at the Institute of International Management & Entrepreneurship, highlighting its international orientation and relevance in today’s global business environment.
FH-Prof. Dr.mont. Corinna Engelhardt-Nowitzki then discussed FH Joanneum’s strategy and vision for accessible, inclusive, and digitalized education, emphasizing the university’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable learning environment.
The afternoon session featured a World Café event, where faculty members engaged in structured conversations around topics like Accessible and Inclusive Education, Digitization of Education, and International Recognition and Competitiveness. The session, facilitated by Ligia Pasqualin, allowed for open dialogue and exchange of ideas.
The day ended with a welcome dinner and networking event at Der Steirer restaurant, providing participants with an opportunity to connect in a more informal setting.
Day 3: Site Visit and Networking
Day three included a visit to Karl Franz University in Graz, offering participants a glimpse into the academic environment of one of Austria’s oldest universities. The visit provided an opportunity for networking and understanding different approaches to education.
Back at FH Joanneum, Mag. Alice Greiner MBA, Head of Gender & Diversity, led a session on gender and diversity strategies at the university. This session highlighted the importance of creating an inclusive educational environment that promotes diversity and equality.
The day concluded with a wrap-up session, reflecting on the key takeaways from the day’s activities.
Day 4: Deep Dive into Inclusive and Innovative Education
The focus of day four was on innovative teaching and learning practices. The morning began with a session on teaching awards at FH Joanneum, led by FH-Prof. MMag. Dr. Harald Friedl. This session recognized excellence in teaching and the importance of innovative pedagogical approaches.
Presentations from DI Jürgen Fluch and MMag. Waltraud Jelinek-Krickl, both Teaching Award winners in 2023, followed. These presentations showcased how digital tools and innovative approaches are being integrated into teaching and learning at FH Joanneum. A group discussion allowed participants to share their experiences and insights on digital learning.
The afternoon included sessions on deliverables and reporting alignment, and future course of action planning for VES Institute of Management. The day ended with a visit to the Smart Care Lab at FH Joanneum, offering participants a firsthand look at the innovative research and development taking place at the university.
Day 5: Socializing and Exploring the Region
The final day of the study visit was dedicated to cultural exploration and socializing. Participants met at FH Joanneum’s main entrance and embarked on a guided tour of Schloss Eggenberg palace rooms, followed by a leisurely walk through the palace gardens.
The group enjoyed a farewell lunch at Rudolf Restaurant before the visit officially concluded with closing remarks and a farewell.
This study visit provided invaluable insights into the strategic planning, innovative teaching practices, and inclusive education strategies being implemented at FH Joanneum. The experience also fostered stronger ties between the participating institutions, paving the way for future collaborations
