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Integration of Work-based Learning in Conflict, Peace and Security Studies (INCOPS)

The integration of practical experience into university curricula has become standard in various disciplines and degree programmes. However, there is often still a gap between the teaching of theoretical content and the acquisition of analytical skills on the one hand and the practical experience that students gain in the workplace and during internships on the other. This is also the case in Peace and Conflict Studies, although academics and employers have emphasised the need for a closer integration of theory and practice. This is particularly important for degree programmes designed to qualify students for a career in peacebuilding, foreign and security policy or conflict resolution. INCOPS proposes a more comprehensive and systematic approach to overcome the existing limitations. To this end, INCOPS is developing a customised work-based learning concept to systematically integrate theory and practice into university teaching and curriculum development. Special emphasis is placed on the role of internships and volunteering.

This is an Erasmus+ Strategic Partnership project of Philipp University Marburg (coordination), Babeș-Bolyai University, University of Coimbra, University of Coventry, University of Kent and Utrecht University.

Project period: 2020-2023
Funding institution: European Union (Erasmus+)
Partners: Universitatea Babes Bolyai [Cluj] (RO), Universidade de Coimbra (P), Coventry University, University Of Kent (UK), University of Marburg, Universiteit Utrecht (NL)
Marburg Team: Prof. Dr. Thorsten Bonacker (coordinator), Dr. Stéphane Voell, Lena Runge