| Description: |
The MAIA Programme of the Instituto Universitário Atlântica, implemented in the 2021/2022 academic year, aims to welcome, help and integrate all new students (national and international mobility students) into the institution. In order to facilitate the transition of new students in the academic year (Mentors) to a new cycle of higher education, the Instituto Atlântica relies on the help of undergraduates from a wide range of degrees (Mentors). These students, on a voluntary basis, have the ideal characteristics for integrating new students. In addition to national students, the Mentors also support foreign students who come to study at Técnico under various mobility programmes. National and international mobility students may come from completely different countries and cultures, and a quick integration into the city and the institution is essential for the success of this experience. The necessary support focuses on resolving some bureaucratic obstacles (transport passes, mobile phones, among others), introducing them to Portuguese culture and finding accommodation, as well as helping them with various issues related to the curricular units, classes and teachers. Providing support in the first weeks of classes with guided tours of the institution, information sessions, help with the material and bibliography needed for the course units, personal support, if necessary, among other things. Information about learners is collected through online form, a personal interview and the organization of focus groups. Information about educators is provided by the online application process (online form providing personal data + motivation letter+ meeting the criteria) The mentoring project ends up being transversal to several areas and allows for cohesion between them. The GP deals with the following diversity types (with regard to Erasmus+ priorities): Barriers to education, Social, economic barriers, Geographical barriers, Barriers linked to discrimination. |