Voices from Dublin – A Cross-Border Learning Experience

As part of the commitment to internationalisation and professional development at the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien, 20 staff members travelled to Dublin to participate in an intensive English language course at the Center of English Studies in July 2025. This unique initiative, joined by 5 colleagues from Politecnico di Torino, aimed not only to enhance language skills, but also to foster cross-cultural dialogue and explore best practices in higher education. We asked several participants to reflect on their experience – both in and beyond the classroom.

Highlights of the Participants: Impressions from Dublin

Three participants share their impressions and experiences with us, both inside and outside the classroom:

Robert Staubmann, Head Team Building Services (UAS Technikum Wien)

What were your personal or professional reasons for participating in this language course, and how did you expect it to impact your work at the institution? How do you think these new language skills will support your role at the UAS?
“My motivation for participating in the language course stemmed from the fact that, as a service department, we are increasingly interacting with English-speaking staff and students. Enhancing our language skills contributes to a more professional and confident impression. The course itself was a thoroughly rewarding experience, held in a very welcoming and positive environment. The instructors were highly motivating and dedicated, and the atmosphere among my fellow participants was equally supportive and enjoyable.”

Outside the classroom, what have you taken away from your time in Dublin on a personal level — something you’ll carry with you beyond this course?
“Outside the classroom, I spent a lot of time exploring the area, including visits to “Malahide Beach” and the “fishing village of Hugh”. I really enjoyed the landscape there. We also appreciated the various culinary recommendations shared by our teacher Gavin. While Dublin can be very loud and stressful, I found its residents to be remarkably friendly and helpful.”

Licia Masoero, International Affairs Officer (Politecnico di Torino)

What has it been like working and learning alongside colleagues from Austria and Italy? How has this experience deepened your understanding of intercultural communication in professional settings?
“Working in an intercultural group was a unique opportunity. It was a great stimulus to learn the language and also a great support for the teacher, as he was able to always create mixed groups, forcing us to always use English to learn. Furthermore, working in an intercultural group was an opportunity to enrich the lessons with many cultural exchanges, focusing on the customs and traditions of our countries. It made the lessons more fun and authentic!”

If you could take one thing from Dublin back to your home country (besides better English), what would it be?
“If I could take one thing from Dublin back to Italy it would be the great ability to make fun of everything!”

Gudrun Weisz, Lecturer & Senior Researcher in Applied Mathematics and Statistics (UAS Technikum Wien)

What motivated you to participate in this English language course?
“Since I only teach bachelor’s degree students at the moment, I deliver my courses in German. However, due to ongoing internationalisation, I think teaching in English will become part of my job within a few years. The number of English-speaking students is increasing, and I have had to speak English a few times over the last few years, which has made me feel uncomfortable. Also, as part of my PhD programme, I have to write and give presentations in English. Therefore, I am motivated to prepare for the present and future.”

Do you see this experience as a stepping stone for further international collaboration or professional development? If so, in what ways?
“I haven’t always been comfortable speaking English. After living in an English-speaking city for a week and having English lessons every day, I experienced talking in English without thinking for the first time in my life. I now have the self-confidence I was looking for. For me, the stepping stone is that I learnt this week that I can speak English and that I don’t need to fear future tasks in English. Last but not least, I would like to mention that our Italian colleagues from our partner university in Turin have invited us to further exchanges.”

Would you recommend this experience to your colleagues? Why?
“Yes, absolutely! There are three reasons to go. Firstly, you have the chance to speak English all week, and the course is fun. Secondly, you´ll meet colleagues you haven’t met yet. We also had the opportunity to meet colleagues from our partner university in Turin. Thirdly, you´ll spend a week in the heart of beautiful Dublin. You have two afternoons off, which you can use for excursions. I went on a cliff hike and saw a seal and some puffins! Take the chance and go!”
 

The Dublin experience has sparked not only linguistic growth, but also new conversations about didactics, staff development, and European cooperation in higher education. As our participants return to their roles, we look forward to seeing how these personal and professional insights will enrich our institution in the months to come!

Further information:

Language course in Dublin 2024

Language course in Dublin 2023

Language course in Dublin 2022

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