TU Delft Exchange Week brings educators together

This week, TU Delft once again hosted the Exchange Week, welcoming participants from higher education institutions across Europe.

The event was made possible through the collaboration of four TU Delft departments: the Extension School, Teaching and Learning Services, the Teaching Academy, and the New Media Centre. These teams originally developed the concept and continue to work together annually to ensure its success.

Throughout the two days, participants engaged in several insightful sessions, including:

Supporting Teaching Staff in Campus Teaching – Gytha Rijnbeek en Franca Jonquière
Online Education at TU Delft – Willem van Valkenburg
Tour of the New Media Centre, showcasing the XR Lab and recording studio
Supporting Faculties in Lifelong Learning – Sofia Dopper
Workshop on Course Development – Tracey Lee Davis
Quality Assurance and Microcredentials – Clelia Paraluppi
Managing the Portfolio of Lifelong Learning Products – Bertien Broekhans
Promoting Lifelong Learning Products – Maaike van Buul

Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of how TU Delft supports campus education, blended learning, and online education. For example, on Friday, they were guided through the Extension School's course development process, learning how decisions are made regarding which courses to create, the types of courses to offer, and how these ideas progress through each stage. This also included an in-depth exploration of marketing strategies, the factors influencing course selection, and how success is evaluated.

On quality assurance insights were offered on how to implement tailored quality practices in lifelong learning. Attendees were encouraged to reflect on the importance of quality assurance at their own institutions, especially when developing flexible learning pathways such as Microcredentials. The Dutch approach provided a useful example, showing how TU Delft’s Extension School maintains high standards for these innovative educational offerings.

By the end of the two days, attendees had a full understanding of how TU Delft’s Lifelong Learning courses are designed, marketed, and evaluated, ensuring that all elements of the educational process are thoroughly addressed.

The smaller group size fostered an intimate setting, perfect for cultivating meaningful discussions and learning from one another. This format has been a cornerstone of the Exchange Weeks since they began in June 2019, with this year marking the fifth edition.

In addition to on-site activities this week, participants were encouraged to join the LinkedIn group, which connects all those who have attended the Exchange Weeks since the very beginning. This group continues the conversation, enabling participants to maintain valuable connections and share insights long after the event.

The event was a resounding success, with engaged participants contributing thoughtful questions and sparking lively discussions. By facilitating this collaborative exchange, TU Delft proudly play a role in contributing to a collaborative culture where knowledge institutions work together. Thank you to everyone who took part.