Report on Tutor-training Noordwijk 2018
Whoever has the illusion that engaging in an academic teaching position implies having the luxury of long vacations, should speak to the tutors of International Studies. As has been the case since the beginning of the Programme, the academic year starts quite early for us.
From 15 August onward, the tutor team gathers on a regular basis to plan and attend meetings, during which we discuss and agree on the specific content and didactics for the tutorials that will be provided throughout the semester.
The two-day didactic training that takes place in Noordwijk, plays an essential role in this preparation period. Under the guidance of ICLON (Leiden University Graduate School of Teaching) experts, tutors and lecturers build on and develop new didactic skills that will be applied in the tutorials.
Although didactic development is undoubtedly the principal aim of the training, working on team spirit is equally (or even more) important. It is in Noordwijk that, while having lunch and dinner together or engaging in a beach stroll, we socialize with new and ‘old’ colleagues, share experiences and have a great deal of good laughs.
Back in The Hague, other meetings follow to finalize guidelines, criteria, and other essential material that guarantee the quality of teaching we wish to offer our students.
We are now ready for another exciting year and we certainly look forward to working together with our students towards a very successful academic year!
Paula Jordão
Head of the tutor team