Skills for Studies and International ContextsLaajuus (3 ECTS)

Objective

These studies promote students' study skills in Stadia, its study environment and students' abilities to cope in different cultural and international contexts. Study skills mean that our students have the ability to plan, manage and follow-up their studies in a responsible manner. This can only be done by mastering the study environment, its practices, regulations and tools. It is also essential to recognise one's aims and objectives, strengths and development areas and become aware of the learning of higher education and its learning approaches.

Studies in culture aim to increase students' awareness of factors present in intercultural and international communication. These competencies involve knowledgeability of cultural variables, awareness of cultural differences and professional operating approaches in multicultural and international contexts.

Content

Orientation to studies;
Study practices;
Students administration system (WinhaWille), Stadia web pages, passwords to the Stadia networks, use of HelpDesk, virtual learning opportunities;
Principles and regulations, e.g. degree regulations, credit transfers, normative duration of studies, study entitlement;
Student benefits;
Student office and their services;
Library services;
Student exchange opportunities;
Learning approach, learning styles and skills for promoting learning;
Devising a personal study plan and a career plan (HOPS);
Tutoring and student guidance;
Necessary background questionnaires and e.g. diagnostic language tests

Skills for the multicultural and international corporate environment: concepts of culture, otherness and sameness; the multicultural Finland.
How to become aware of cultural backgrounds and apply wise strategies for communicating in mixed cultural groups.
International study and work environment: stereotypical apprehensions, ethnocentrism and cultural relativism; cultural similarities and differencies; intercultural communication; adaptation to new environments.