Staff perspectives: challenges, opportunities, outcomes Dr. Janet Anand and Dr. Chaitali Das

Challenges and Responses Euro-western perspectives and engagement Critical perspective Mutuality Links at an academic level Relating it to core business (Context of NI, sustainability, recognition) Linking it with universities and professional agendas

Challenges and Responses Practicalities (funding, safety, communication, models) Ad hoc, pilot Experimental with a considered level of risk taking Courageous Building partnerships at different levels (different agendas, different expectations, levels of resources, cultures, power)

Opportunities Exposure to a global context (university and professional agenda) The context as a learning experience: multiple exposures Exploring new approaches to learning critical reflection peer learning Gains in knowledge and skills Critique local practice Self awareness Opportunities Partnerships Collaborations Publications Presentations

Reflections Our students need to be exposed to a global context Unparalleled site for learning (student presentation demonstrates this) Partnerships with students is essential Make use of ad hoc opportunities Use existing links with other institutions Enable critical learning

Student Perspectives on International Exchange Reflections on Problems, Opportunities and Outcomes Claire Doherty, Lauren Donnelly, Naomi Ferguson

Opportunities for Students Personal Challenge Professional Development Development of cultural competency Knowledge of globalisation and global oppression Sharing of ideas and skills Situational learning

Challenges and Responses NI social work role – too defined - In how it is presented to students - International exchange does not fit easily Demographic of students - Personal reasons that make the opportunity impractical Communication and cultural differences The ability to effectively separate contexts

Outcomes General benefits of exchange trips -cultural competency, sensitivity, awareness, ne learning and life experiences Unintended outcomes resulted in our greatest learning opportunities Facilitated learning about our own culture and community - Northern Ireland and the legacy of The Troubles - Division and social injustice in a different context - Division and injustice on a global level - The opportunity to discuss and reflect – learner to learner