In December 2023, a group of 20 Westminster students went on a ten-day field trip to Thailand. Organised by the University of Westminster and Kasetsart University, it was part of a new module, Democratic Engagement in a Global Context, within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
The new module integrates academics from various disciplines and international partner universities, including Westminster, Kasetsart and Hanoi, to enhance student research skills by comparing cultural and educational aspects across subjects. During the ten-week module, University of Westminster students from various fields such as biomedical science, cognitive and clinical neuroscience, criminology, international relations, law, politics, psychology and counselling met every week in London. They were joined virtually by students from Kasetsart and Hanoi universities.
Dr Farhang Morady, the module leader, and director of the Democratic Education Network, stated that this innovative module helps students from diverse disciplines acquire new knowledge, develop crucial skills, and improve communication abilities. Ultimately, this enhances their employability and career growth.
In the final week of the module, students from Westminster, Kasetsart and Hanoi universities met in Bangkok for ten days of educational and cultural activities. These included workshops on Thai education, culture, history and excursions to temples, museums and cultural institutions. The students also participated in a mini conference where they presented their own research. This conference was in preparation for the Seventh Annual Democratic Education Network's (DEN) International Student Conference in London, which will take place on 10 May 2024.
Katie Bracci, a second-year International Relations and Development BA Honours student, said: “The module and field trip have significantly contributed to my cross-cultural collaboration and understanding skills, which will be helpful in my future career. These skills will be invaluable, especially if I venture into fields related to international relations.”
Gabrielle Marciano da Silva, a second-year Biomedical Science BCs Honours student, added: “Presenting my views on the scientific field to Thai students and communicating with academics from different disciplines made me realise the importance of developing knowledge in every aspect of life. The module and field trip was an incredible opportunity and I'm grateful for the experience.”
Interim Head of School of Social Sciences Alan Porter, said: “The unique design of this module provided a framework for genuinely transformative learning for both students and lecturers from the University of Westminster and Kasetsart University.”
Professor Dibyesh Anand, Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Employability and Global Engagement) added: “This is an excellent example of innovation and care that is exhibited by our academic colleagues in providing our students from diverse backgrounds an educational experience that is not parochial, but global”.
Learn about courses in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Westminster.
