International Higher Education Teacher Award ^2024/25

The TEFE A+ BIP is a teacher training blended course that combines structured training with practical experience. This international teaching practice induction programme develops global teaching competences and fosters cultural sensitivity of future teachers of English, equipping participants to teach in an international context. A core element of the programme is its focus on the TEFE Framework for the Internationalisation of Teaching Practice and Employability, an innovative tool accessible through platforms such as the Erasmus+ Project Results Platform and the project’s COIL platform at https://tefe.online. The TEFE Framework introduces a practice-based methodology to support student teachers of English in enhancing their employability, mobility, and professional identity, preparing them for success in diverse, multicultural educational environments. Programme highlights: Application of the TEFE Framework: Participants apply the TEFE Framework and the International Teaching Practice Toolkit, gaining practical experience in internationally oriented teaching approaches. Collaborative Learning: Working in transnational student teacher groups, co-creation projects such as the TEFE Ambassadors Poster, and reflective practices foster peer-to-peer learning and enhance teamwork skills. Experiential Learning and Assisted Reflection: School visits, classroom observations, and post-teaching discussions provide hands-on experience in diverse educational settings. Innovative Resources: Access to internationally developed resources deepens participants’ understanding of global teaching approaches. Collaborative Knowledge Sharing: Participants exchange insights, share best practices, and expand their professional networks within a global community of future teachers. Enhanced Competences: Intensive mentoring from university educators and teacher mentors prepares participants for Erasmus+ international teaching internships and their professional teaching careers. Key results: By preparing participants for Erasmus+ teaching internships, the TEFE A+ BIP promotes ongoing international collaboration and supports the integration of international teaching practices in European teacher education. This influence enhances the mobility, employability, and cultural adaptability of future teachers. The programme bridges the gap between theory and practice while strengthening cooperation between European higher education institutions and their partner schools.

Methodology

The Teachers of English for Future Europe: International Teaching Practice Induction Course employs a research-informed methodology to internationalise teacher education, enhance employability, and foster a professional community among future English teachers. The approach is organised into three key phases: planning, implementation, and review. Each phase incorporates roles and contributions from international partners, ensuring relevance, innovation, and impact. ________________________________________ Planning Phase 1. Collaborative Design: The programme is developed by six partner institutions (Czech Republic, UK, Slovakia, Hungary, Germany, and Spain), ensuring diverse cultural and pedagogical perspectives. 2. Structured Objectives: The programme uses the TEFE Methodology, integrating experiential learning, cross-cultural collaboration, and reflective practice in a blended format, making it accessible to participants. 3. Resources: The International Teaching Practice Toolkit offers structured resources like observation templates, reflection prompts, and case studies. 4. Participant Selection: Each cohort includes 15–20 participants, student teachers and teacher educators, committed to internationalising their teaching. ________________________________________ Implementation Phase 1. Virtual Orientation: o A 90-minute online session introduces the TEFE methodology, objectives, and learning resources. o Participants engage in live discussions, share resources, and collaborate through forums. 2. On-Site Induction: o Five-Day Intensive Programme: Hosted in TEFE consortium countries (e.g., České Budějovice, Czech Republic, or Passau, Germany), participants observe and analyse teaching practices. o Collaboration in Groups: Transnational groups reflect on practices and compare educational approaches. o Experiential Activities: Classroom observations and workshops focus on adapting teaching techniques. o Mentoring: Experienced mentors guide participants in analysing their experiences. 3. Virtual Follow-Up: Two 60-minute sessions support reflection, sharing of outcomes, and sustained networking. ________________________________________ Review Phase 1. Reflection and Evaluation: A structured evaluation framework assesses participants' progress, understanding of the TEFE Framework, and readiness for international teaching practice. Feedback refines future iterations. 2. Outcomes Documentation: Participants document reflections, showcasing skills like adaptability to diverse contexts. Consortium partners share recommendations for integration into curricula. ________________________________________ Key Roles and Actors 1. Consortium Institutions: Each partner contributes expertise in curriculum design, mentoring, and delivery. The hosting institution coordinates on-site activities. 2. Participants: Student teachers engage in learning, observation, and reflective practice. Teacher educators provide mentoring and facilitation. 3. Partner Schools: Local schools offer authentic teaching contexts. 4. External Stakeholders: Educational policymakers advocate for the internationalisation of teacher education. ________________________________________ Innovative Features 1. Structured Framework: The TEFE Framework and Toolkit offer practical tools for learning and reflection. 2. Blended Learning: A combination of virtual and on-site components balances accessibility and immersive experiences. 3. Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Participants work in transnational groups, fostering peer learning and intercultural understanding. 4. Employability: Exposure to diverse teaching environments equips participants with essential global teaching skills. ________________________________________ Outcomes 1. Enhanced Skills: Participants gain practical insights into international teaching, improving adaptability and pedagogy. 2. Professional Networks: The programme builds lasting connections among educators, fostering an international community. 3. Continuous Improvement: Feedback informs programme design, ensuring sustained innovation and relevance. The TEFE A+ BIP methodology combines real-world experience, collaboration, and reflection, preparing participants for the complexities of teaching in a globalised world.

Tools, equipment, technology used

The Teachers of English for Future Europe: International Teaching Practice Induction Course (TEFE A+ BIP) combines practical tools, innovative resources, and hands-on experiences to prepare participants for teaching in international contexts. The programme’s core innovation lies not in flashy technology but in its structured use of tools to provide authentic international teaching practice, reflective learning, and professional collaboration. ________________________________________ Core Tools and Resources 1. The TEFE Framework for International Teaching Practice: This step-by-step guide helps participants observe, analyse, and reflect on teaching practices in diverse cultural and institutional contexts. It fosters critical thinking and structures discussions around key teaching elements such as classroom interaction and the role of the teacher. 2. International Teaching Practice Toolkit: This resource collection includes observation templates, reflection prompts, and case studies, helping participants actively engage with observations and link them to teaching goals. 3. Online Collaboration Tools: Platforms like MS Teams, Zoom, Moodle, and Google Workspaces are used to connect participants before, during, and after the on-site event, facilitating material sharing, group work, and network building. 4. Supplementary Materials: Interactive resources, such as sample lesson plans and task-based activities, offer practical examples that participants can adapt, enriching the learning experience without relying heavily on recorded lessons. ________________________________________ How These Tools Are Used 1. Authentic Classroom Observations: Participants visit real classrooms in a TEFE partner country (e.g., Czech Republic), using the TEFE Toolkit to observe, record, and compare teaching practices across cultural contexts. 2. Reflection and Mentoring: Post-observation discussions with mentors help participants analyse their findings, challenge assumptions, and develop a flexible teaching mindset. 3. Building Professional Networks: Participants collaborate in transnational teams, completing tasks such as analysing teaching practices or exploring cultural influences. These relationships often continue after the programme, supported by digital tools and social media. 4. Blended Learning: Virtual sessions before and after the on-site component establish connections, introduce concepts, and support reflection. This hybrid format helps prepare participants for cultural differences and fosters deeper engagement. ________________________________________ Innovative Use of Tools 1. Real-World Application: Tools like the TEFE Framework and Toolkit ensure participants engage meaningfully with authentic teaching environments rather than relying on theory or simulation. 2. International Collaboration: Participants learn directly from each other’s experiences, challenging assumptions and fostering intercultural understanding. 3. Reflection as a Teaching Skill: Mentored reflection sessions build self-awareness and adaptability, ensuring lasting insights into their teaching identity. ________________________________________ Overall, TEFE A+ BIP helps participants develop key skills in observation, collaboration, and reflection, all vital for teaching in international settings. By combining practical tools, international teamwork, and real-life classroom experiences, the programme prepares future educators to confidently navigate diverse teaching environments.

Outcomes and outputs, main results

The TEFE A+ BIP prepares participants to teach English in international settings. They gain first-hand experience teaching beyond their national context, activating their learning in authentic teacher training environments through real-world classroom observations and mentoring. They apply the TEFE Framework of Competences for Employability and the TEFE Toolkit, equipping them with structured resources to reflect on and improve their teaching practice. The programme also fosters professional relationships among student teachers, teacher educators, and mentors, creating a collaborative network that supports ongoing development. A key result is preparing participants for future international teaching internships in TEFE partner countries. Through online collaboration, they form a professional TEFE A+ BIP peer group, enabling the exchange of ideas and lasting connections. The permeability of workflows among student teachers, educators, and partner schools strengthens professional interaction and cross-cultural understanding. Participants also create TEFE Ambassadors' materials, which capture and promote the programme’s principles. These outputs, shared within their communities, challenge conventional perspectives on teaching, inspire change, and support the goals of internationalisation and professional growth in teacher education.

Lessons learnt

One of the most important aspects of implementing the TEFE A+ BIP is securing Erasmus+ KA1 funding in a timely manner. Without this, the programme cannot proceed, as the funding supports student and staff mobility and on-site activities. The hosting institution must apply early, ensuring the application aligns with the academic calendar and consortium planning. A critical mistake to avoid is underestimating the time and administrative effort required for funding applications, which can delay implementation or reduce participation. Another key consideration is embedding the BIP into teacher education curricula as a formal component. This ensures alignment with institutional objectives and avoids treating the programme as an optional or extracurricular activity, which can undermine its sustainability and visibility. Early collaboration with consortium partners is essential to integrate the programme effectively and to advocate for international teaching practicums as part of standard teacher education. To avoid mistakes, clear internal workflows for funding and planning should be established. Strong communication and role distribution within the consortium prevent delays and ensure a seamless process. For example, assigning dedicated coordinators for funding, logistics, and academic content has proven effective in overcoming challenges. Institutions should also prepare for potential logistical issues, such as limited accommodation or school placements, by working closely with local partners in advance. These strategies ensure the TEFE A+ BIP can be implemented successfully, fostering sustainable collaboration and impactful outcomes for participants.

Adaptability and sustainability of the best practice (for other institutions)

The TEFE A+ BIP is part of a larger initiative by the TEFE consortium to internationalise teaching practice across Europe. Its structure and resources, such as the TEFE Framework and Toolkit, make it easy for other institutions to adopt and adapt. Institutions can tailor the programme to their local teaching contexts by partnering with nearby schools and creating opportunities for student teachers to observe and reflect on diverse classroom practices. Sustainability is ensured by embedding the BIP into teacher education programmes, making it a core part of preparing student teachers for international teaching. Long-term impact is supported through the professional networks participants build during the programme, which extend beyond the course. Establishing links with the TEFE consortium and recognising its resources and expertise will further strengthen the implementation and success of this induction course, offering ongoing support and collaboration opportunities for participating institutions.

Promotion of best practice

The TEFE A+ BIP is promoted at three levels, aiming to achieve both outreach and impact. Institutionally, the programme is shared through teaching materials, workshops, and university websites, linking the course to the academic community. Student testimonials and the project website offer insights, helping prospective participants understand the programme's value. TEFE Ambassadors, participants who have completed the programme, play a crucial role by sharing their experiences with peers, creating a ripple effect that encourages others to join. At the national and international levels, the programme's impact is amplified through conference presentations, academic publications, and YouTube content, where key learnings are shared. Presentations at international conferences raise the programme’s profile, while publications detail its methodologies and outcomes. Collaborations with educational boards, governmental bodies, and stakeholders advocate for the integration of international teaching practicum models in teacher education systems. These efforts ensure the programme gains visibility, supports its credibility, and encourages adoption. As a result, TEFE A+ BIP contributes to the growing recognition of international teaching practicums as an essential and integrated component of teacher education, fostering a more globally connected and employable generation of teachers.

Scope and impact

• Course/department level
• Faculty level
• Institutional level
• Cross-institutional level
• National level
• EU/EHEA/International level

The TEFE A+ BIP has broad impact. At the course/department and faculty levels, it enhances teacher training by integrating international teaching practice into curricula , equipping student teachers with global competences. At the institutional and cross-institutional levels, it fosters collaboration among partner universities, embedding mobility as a core element of teacher education. At the national and EU/EHEA levels, it supports internationalisation and alignment with EHEA goals by preparing teachers for diverse classrooms, advancing mutual recognition of qualifications, and promoting cross-border professional networks. These outcomes ensure POSITIVE impact on teacher education and employability.

6.1 Digitalization

• Outstanding, innovative, excellent practices of online / blended / hybrid learning
• Innovative, novel methodology in using digital tools/devices in teaching

Reasoning: The TEFE A+ BIP uses digital tools to enhance teaching. The TEFE Framework and Toolkit are accessible online, supporting flexible learning. Tools like MS Teams, Zoom, Moodle, and Google Workspaces facilitate collaboration and feedback. Menti and Socrative engage participants with polls and quizzes, while Padlet, Jamboard, and Kahoot support brainstorming and interactive learning. These tools help develop digital competences, ensuring effective and ethical use of technology in teaching.

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6.2 Internationalization

• Outstanding practices of international online collaborative learning
• Developing students' multicultural awareness
• Innovative practices of blended mobility
• Courses implemented in international cooperation (projects, co-teaching, virtual/blended mobility, etc.)
• Courses offered to international multicultural students both online and offline

Reasoning: The TEFE A+ BIP integrates internationalisation by immersing participants in diverse teaching environments and promoting cross-cultural collaboration. The course uses MS Teams, Zoom, and Moodle to connect students from multiple countries, fostering global networking. The TEFE Framework and Toolkit guide participants to reflect on and adapt teaching practices to diverse cultural contexts. Collaborative projects encourage the exchange of perspectives, promoting intercultural competence. The programme adapts its teaching strategies through mentoring and interactive workshops, ensuring relevance for students from various backgrounds. By observing real classrooms in different countries and engaging in reflective practices, participants develop skills for teaching in a globalised world. This approach nurtures international competences and prepares participants for international teaching internships, reinforcing the course’s role in advancing global educational practices.

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6.3 Inclusion and diversity, universal design

• Inclusive course design, universally designed divers activities to meet special students' needs
• Alternative, flexible assessment methods for students with special needs
• Senzitivizing students to consider special needs when practicing their profession
• Course includes hints on how the services/products of the profession could be universally designed/inclusive

Reasoning: The TEFE A+ BIP promotes inclusion by designing activities that cater to diverse student needs. Flexible assessments allow students with special needs to demonstrate their learning in suitable ways. Through collaborative projects and mentoring, participants adapt to different learning styles. The programme includes discussions on special needs in workshops and classroom observations, helping students develop the awareness to address these needs and create inclusive learning environments.

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6.4 Sustainability

• Sustainability goals are addressed in the course(s)
• Teaching material contains profession related sustainability aspects

Reasoning: The TEFE A+ BIP supports sustainability by developing global teaching competences and promoting inclusive, equitable, quality education. The programme integrates sustainable teaching practices and cross-cultural understanding, ensuring students are equipped to address global challenges. Sustainability runs through the programme, with a focus on inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability, helping students develop the skills needed for socially responsible and sustainable teaching.

3.3 Public contact datas

Name	Email address	Website
TEFE A+	tefe.project@gmail.com	https://tefe.online/