S. Elsom, AUS

Sandra (Sandie) Elsom is a Lecturer in Technology Education in the School of Education and Tertiary Access at the University of the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. A specialist in adult learning, Sandie’s teaching focuses on helping adult students to understand their own needs and learning preferences, while increasing their abilities with the help of technology. In particular, Sandie has a developing interest in the ethical and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence to support learning. Her classes blend academic content with humour, hands on activities, and class participation to engage and inform. 

This was Sandie’s fourth faculty visit to RheinAhrCampus. On this occasion she co-taught in Business English Project Management, as well as teaching Critical Thinking (Asia Pacific), a course custom designed for the diverse cohort of students at RheinAhrCampus. The course had an intercultural focus and incorporated the creative use of AI. Students were encouraged to consider their own beliefs and understandings and explore cross cultural perspectives on those same topics by interviewing a person from a different culture. The feedback provided by the students indicated a high degree of satisfaction and engagement with the course, particularly praising the unique approach of integrating critical thinking, artificial intelligence (AI), and intercultural understanding. Students highlighted the inclusion of ChatGPT, appreciating the forethought in preparing them for a future where AI tools will be increasingly relevant. The opportunity to learn about different cultures, countries, and their education systems via guest lecturers was praised by the students.  One student commented that “I came to know a lot about culture and my classmates' perspectives during the activities. I came to know about a lot of Australia and its culture also. It was an amazing course.”

Sandie appreciates the opportunity to keep growing her understanding of culture and diversity by teaching at RheinAhrCampus. In particular, she values the opportunity to meet and collaborate with international colleagues. Sandie considers it a very valuable part of her professional development and encourages other lecturers and students to consider studying and teaching abroad. If you are considering spending a semester at RheinAhrCampus and you have questions, you are welcome to contact Sandie via the International Office.  

Hochschule Koblenz is able to offer teaching staff mobility with partner countries in the framework of ERASMUS+ KA 171. The national agency in charge of this programme is the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).