01.11.2023 INCOPS Project Releases Innovative INSPIRE Programme: Enhancing Work-Based Learning in Peace & Conflict Studies
Publication of the INCOPS Report #4
The INCOPS Project introduces the INSPIRE programme described in the report titled "INSPIRE – Integrating Service Learning in Peace & Conflict Studies Internships," authored by Lena Runge, Stéphane Voell, Kerstin Zimmer, and Thorsten Bonacker. This initiative stems from the "Integration of Work-based Learning in Conflict, Peace, and Security Studies (INCOPS)" project, aiming to reform the integration of Work-based Learning (WBL) activities in Peace, Conflict, and Security Studies (PCS) courses through the incorporation of Service Learning.
INSPIRE (Integrating Service Learning in Peace & Conflict Studies Internships) has been developed during Intellectual Output 4 to elevate students' internship experiences by seamlessly integrating internships into study programmes. The programme comprises three distinct phases – the preparation phase, the support phase, and the reflection and integration phase, aiming to provide a comprehensive and enriching internship experience that combines elements of "service" and "learning."
INSPIRE
INSPIRE (Integrating Service Learning in Peace & Conflict Studies Internships) has been developed to elevate students' internship experiences by seamlessly integrating internships into study programmes. The programme comprises three distinct phases aiming to provide a comprehensive and enriching internship experience that combines elements of "service" and "learning."
Preparation Phase: This phase commences when students express interest in undertaking an internship. It offers invaluable opportunities for students to acquire knowledge, attend informative talks, receive insights from present interns and alumni experiences, and gather best practices advice. A shared learning platform facilitates access to information, discussion forums, and blog entries from interns, fostering a preparatory environment.
Support Phase: Conducted through monthly online events, this phase serves as a meet-up for three categories of PCS students. Students actively engaged in internships share their experiences, those seeking direction before initiating internships receive guidance, and former interns reflect on their experiences alongside peers. This online delivery mode accommodates students' geographical dispersion during internships, emphasizing a tutorial format supported by internship coordinators.
Reflection and Integration Phase: Initiated after completing the internship, this phase consolidates learning through an internship report in varied university-specific formats. It proposes the use of an ungraded learning portfolio encompassing a learning agreement, blog posts, and a final reflection for evaluation. Additionally, a conclusive meeting with the internship organization evaluates competencies based on the learning agreement. Former trainees share insights with new interns, fostering personal reflection and preparing future participants.
INSPIRE represents a structured approach to integrating Service Learning into PCS internships. By prioritizing the three fundamental phases of preparation, support, and reflection and integration, the programme aims to offer students a comprehensive and helpful internship experience.
- Runge, Lena, Stéphane Voell, Kerstin Zimmer and Thorsten Bonacker (2023). INSPIRE – Integrating Service Learning in Peace & Conflict Studies Internships. INCOPS Report #4
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Integration of Work-based Learning in Conflict, Peace and Security Studies (INCOPS)
Erasmus+ Strategic Partnerships, 2020-1-DE01-KA203-005661
