Business Simulation, BIP-ID: 2024-1-DE01-KA131-HED-000204730-2

BIP Coordination: Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences, DE HEILBRO01

BIP Partners (3): Haaga-Helia University, SF HELSINK40 (Finland); Bratislav University of Economics and Business, SK BRATISL03 (Slovakia); University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Trnava, SK TRNAVA02 (Slowakia)

Promoting innovative teaching and learning methods while providing opportunities for international experience.

As part of an EU-funded Blended Intensive Programme (BIP), an international course was successfully conducted from 13 to 17 October 2025 during the winter semester 2025/2026, with Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences serving as the host institution. In addition to the long-standing partner institutions Haaga-Helia University and the University of Economics in Bratislava, the University of Trnava participated in the programme for the first time.

The organizational phase leading up to the programme was extremely positive. Thanks to the flexibility and strong commitment of all those involved, organizational issues were resolved efficiently and in a solution-oriented manner. The cooperation among the partner institutions was characterized by openness, mutual trust, and a shared understanding of the programme’s objectives. As a result, both the virtual preparation phase and the subsequent on-site phase were implemented smoothly. This flexibility was supported by the strong relationship of trust among the participating lecturers.

The on-site phase at the Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences campus was particularly distinguished by the intensive international collaboration among the students. Participants worked in multinational teams on shared assignments and projects. For many students, this was the first opportunity to collaborate exclusively in English within a truly international environment. It quickly became apparent that, in addition to language-related challenges, cultural differences also played an important role. Different communication styles, working methods, and expectations had to be recognized and addressed. These experiences represented a significant added value of the programme, as they enabled students to develop intercultural competencies and strengthen their teamwork skills in an international context.

One of the highlights of the programme was an excursion to a regional wine cooperative. The guided tour and insights into wine production generated considerable interest among the participants. This activity was particularly meaningful for the Finnish students, as viticulture and wine production play virtually no role in their home country. Consequently, the visit provided not only professional insights but also an engaging cultural exchange on regional traditions and economic characteristics.

Another excursion took the group to Strasbourg, including a visit to the European Parliament. This activity vividly illustrated the importance of European cooperation and the European idea. At the same time, it demonstrated that European cooperation does not only take place at the political level but begins above all at the individual level through personal encounters, collaborative projects, and direct exchange between young people from different countries and cultures. Strasbourg, with its complex Franco-German history, further emphasized the importance of working together across borders.

Overall, the Blended Intensive Programme can be regarded as a great success. In addition to academic collaboration, the programme focused particularly on the development of intercultural competencies, international networking, and a shared understanding of European values and cooperation. The positive feedback from all participants clearly demonstrates the value of such programmes for both students and higher education institutions.