Global University Network for Innovation: Barcelona 2013
GUNi invited faculty and administrators from around the globe to discuss
the approaches, challenges and innovations in higher education through
civic engagement at the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC). At the
conference, colleagues explored the ways in which engagement enhances
teaching, learning and research. While there, I presented about Drexel’s
Community Inside-Out pilot.Drexel University and the Inside-Out
International Prison Exchange Program recently came together for a
specialized training program. This exciting opportunity allowed Drexel
faculty to train together in the unique pedagogy of Inside-Out, coordinating
efforts across disciplinary divides. Participants have played a pioneering
role, developing an extension of the traditional model of Inside-Out.
Professionally, it was inspiring to hear how other faculty and
institutions are negotiating very similar issues to ours at
Drexel. Despite our geography and cultural differences, we
all had similar concerns and areas of weaknesses. I was
reminded of how well Drexel partners with community
members. I left with several lessons on how we can
improve. Overall, I would suggest that Drexel develops a
stronger international civic engagement presence as we
have a tremendous amount to offer.
Personally, I have never traveled to Europe and I was love-struck by
Barcelona. I described the destination as the perfect combination of
historic urban environments, pristine beaches, beautiful mountain
regions and a foodies heaven. I enjoyed wondering the narrow
streets and discovering tapas. While I was walking along the port, he
Barcelona soccer team, who had just captured Spain’s National
Championship, was touring the city. I was immediately reminded that
I was not in Philadelphia anymore: Our fans have a lot to learn about
civility and sportsmanship. I left Spain with a new perspective on the
importance of study abroad for our students and feeling professional
reinvigorated.