Academic consultancy training in an interdisciplinary context

Abstract

An interdisciplinary training in which students learn to apply their knowledge is currently being developed. Though many drivers sparked the idea, the main reason is the need of practice for real bridge builders who are able to reflect, spark ideas and handle complex problems. The aim of i-ACT is to offer interdisciplinary teams of students the opportunity to execute an academic consultancy project in collaboration with an external commissioner. Lectures and a book club will get students acquainted with different disciplines, while working on a real life problem will train their consultancy skills. This elective course, for master students, requires a devoted team of teachers and coaches. To this end, we will organise a focus group to get teachers and students involved and to give them a sense of ownership. After a first edition of i-ACT, which will be limited to two faculties, the idea is to open up the course for each faculty of the university. Preparatory training will be given to new teachers in order to boost their skills when coaching students and to also establish professional growth in teaching, as the university expects from their staff members.