IMH-Graafschap College Student Exchange: An International Learning and Collaboration Project

Recently, the IMH Integrated Vocational Training Centre has had the pleasure of hosting a group of students from Graafschap College, located in Doetinchem, the Netherlands, as part of an academic exchange project now in its third consecutive year. This project not only seeks to promote technical learning through the design and manufacture of a remote-controlled boat, but also to encourage the personal and social growth of the students through enriching intercultural experiences, promoting the use of English as a foreign language, and immersion in new cultures and ways of life.

During their visit to IMH Campus, our vocational students and the Dutch students worked together in small groups to design and prototype the remote-controlled boat using Additive Manufacturing techniques. After testing their designs, they made improvements, ending the project with a group presentation, where they explained both the technical and social aspects worked on during the week. They have also shared time and conversations that have allowed them to create friendships and break down cultural barriers. The atmosphere has been very enriching and collaborative, allowing the students to develop their technical skills as well as their communication and teamwork abilities.

In addition to the technical activities, they have enjoyed a varied social agenda: they have learnt about local history by visiting the Machine Tool Museum in Elgoibar and the Armoury Museum in Eibar. They also took the opportunity to go sightseeing at the Planetarium in Donostia and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. And, of course, leisure: they visited the coast to go paddle surfing on the beach of Deba and shared group meals, discussing different cultural issues, which facilitates greater understanding between the two cultures.

The exchange has been an unforgettable experience for the participants. The bonds between the students have been strengthened and they are already looking forward to the next visit to Doetinchem in November.