EEA Cooperation Programme in Higher Education

Programme operator: Ministry of Education and Research

Implementer: Education and Youth Board

Donor Programme Partners: Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (HK-dir), Liechtensteinis National Agency for International Educational Affairs (AIBA)

Donor Programme Partners: 1,3m euros, in which Norway Grants contribution is 85% and Estonian national co-financing 15%.

Programme Implementation Deadline: 30.04.2024

For additional information please contact: [email protected]

EEA Grants logo package

Project promoter: Estonian Business School (EBS)
Project manager: Kristiina Urb
Partners: BI Norwegian Business School, University of Iceland, Creativity Lab OÜ, MTÜ Loov Eesti

Some of the best creative industry experts from Iceland, Norway and Estonia put their heads together and created teaching materials about the creative industries and CCI entrepreneurship, i.e. the “CCI Learning Module Toolbox” that universities and creative business incubators can use to create their own courses and training about the CCI and entrepreneurship within the CCI.

The project achieved successful implementation even amidst the constraints imposed by the recent COVID-19 pandemic. In a fortunate turn of events, project partners had the opportunity to meet in person for an intensive course at the BI Norwegian Business School in November 2019, just before the pandemic struck. This critical meeting facilitated project launch and the creation of key intellectual output. Due to the pandemic, subsequent communication primarily occurred through virtual channels.

Project administration, project-related courses, and the "Supporting (Future) Creative Entrepreneurs" conference showcasing the project's results all transitioned to virtual formats. During the conference, project manager Kristiina Urb presented the project's outcomes. Additionally, Kaari Kiitsak-Prikk (EMTA), Juko-Mart Kõlar (UT), and Sten-Kristian Saluveer (BAF) shared their experiences in teaching creative economy and entrepreneurship. To offer a broader perspective, the conference also featured David Parrish, an expert from Great Britain, who provided an overview of the future needs of creative entrepreneurs and considerations for organisations supporting them.

The project yielded a toolbox for creative entrepreneurs, built upon design thinking principles. This toolbox offers a comprehensive suite of resources:

• A manual suitable for independent use by students or by companies starting to develop business plans.
• Instructions for teaching staff on effectively utilizing the toolbox.
• Interactive worksheets for engaging and playful learning of various business aspects.
• Videos featuring creative entrepreneurs and experts to stimulate discussion and independent work.
• Supplementary materials including examples, podcasts, videos, and slides that introduce the 5-day intensive course in creative entrepreneurship.

The complete toolbox with all its tools is available for viewing and use www.ccitool.box.com.

Project promoter: Estonian Aviation Academy
Project manager: Viktor Trasberg
Partner: UiT The Arctic University of Norway

The Estonian Aviation Academy, in collaboration with UiT The Arctic University of Norway (UiT), successfully implemented the "Simulation Based Learning in Aviation" project.

The project yielded significant advancements in integrating digital learning tools into aviation-related subjects. A dedicated module for digital simulations (models) was created using the SIMIO software. These simulation models, built on real-world data, were seamlessly integrated into the partner institutions' academic courses. Students not only had the opportunity to learn from these models but also gained valuable skills in model creation and utilization. This comprehensive approach fosters a deeper understanding of complex aviation processes while simultaneously promoting creativity and digital literacy among students.

Project activities extended beyond coursework. Short-term webinars aimed at employees of the partner institutions provided a theoretical foundation for using simulation methods in education. These webinars also explored the functionalities and benefits of various digital simulation programs.

The development of these digital simulation tools paves the way for closer collaboration between academia and the aviation industry. Project implementation involved introducing representatives from the aviation sector to the potential and practical applications of digital modelling in managing real-world aviation processes. By acquiring expertise in using these models, the partner institutions are well-positioned to share their knowledge more broadly within the aviation sector in the future.

Project promoter:  Tallinna Tehnikakõrgkool
Project manager: Helen Kiis
Partner: University of Akureyri

The Tallinn University of Applied Sciences (TTK UAS), in collaboration with University of Akureyri, successfully completed the project titled "Electronic workbook of cross border assignments from Estonian and Icelandic companies (E-CBA)".

The E-CBA project, aimed to develop a reusable electronic workbook focused on tasks faced by Estonian and Icelandic companies in the engineering economics. To achieve this, TTU UAS leveraged its long-standing partnership with the University of Akureyri in Iceland.

This established collaboration proved invaluable. The existing trust and familiarity between both universities facilitated smooth communication, efficient project planning, and the identification of common areas of cooperation. Notably, previous collaboration also extended to specialists within specific fields, further streamlining project launch and ongoing communication.

While challenges arose during the project period, particularly in adhering to deadlines and maintaining the pre-agreed work pace, open communication and a commitment to success ensured timely completion. Both partners remain interested in furthering this collaboration and are actively seeking new funding opportunities.

The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly affected the project. The initial focus on company survival during the second wave (spring 2021) hindered initial recruitment. Consequently, case studies had to be written in a shorter timeframe. Despite this, the project team successfully adapted and completed all necessary activities.

The pandemic necessitated adjustments to project meetings and planned study weeks. Fortunately, the project plan could be revised, allowing for virtual participation, and ensuring all activities were completed. Notably, only one physical meeting was missed, with additional members participating in the subsequent session.

The project's resources were successfully integrated into teaching during the project period and will continue to enrich future instruction. Information about the developed case studies has been disseminated to the target group since November 2022 and will continue.

Looking ahead, the partnership between TTU UAS and the University of Akureyri will unquestionably extend beyond this project. Both institutions are actively involved in other networks and projects dedicated to the advancement of entrepreneurship education.

Internationalization is paramount in today's evolving society. Companies require employee’s adept at international collaboration and cross-border solutions. Consequently, universities play a critical role in equipping students with international experience. This extends beyond students; international projects offer invaluable opportunities for faculty development, fostering new connections, expertise, and diverse perspectives.

Based on TTU UAS experience, students increasingly seek out learning opportunities akin to the E-CBA project. As project facilitators, we frequently receive inquiries from students eager to participate in future international endeavours.

Project promoter: UNIVERSITY OF TARTU
Project manager: Kaja Põlluste
Partners: Western Norway University of Applied Sciences

The University of Tartu, in cooperation with Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, successfully implemented the project "Hybrid curriculum in patient safety: integration of academic master’s education and continuous professional education in Estonia and in Norway".

The project involved a diverse group of participants from both countries. In Estonia, the University of Tartu's Institute of Clinical Medicine (internal clinic) and the Institute of The Institute of Family Medicine and Public Health contributed expertise. Additionally, representatives from Tartu University Clinic, Ida-Tallinn Central Hospital, and South Estonia Hospital participated.

Western Norway University of Applied Sciences served as the primary Norwegian partner, with lecturers from their master’s degree in nursing and university hospital representatives joining the project. Notably, other Norwegian institutions like the University of Stavanger, Lovisenberg Diaconia University College, Haukeland University Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, and Stavanger University Hospital also provided valuable contributions.

The project faced an initial setback when the originally designated Norwegian partner withdrew. However, the University of Tartu swiftly secured the participation of Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, ensuring minimal disruption. This swift action and excellent cooperation among all partners were instrumental in the project's success. We also extend our sincere gratitude to our colleagues from Estonian hospitals.

The project aimed to develop a unified curriculum alongside suitable study materials, an assessment tool, and training provider instructions. Additionally, metrics for evaluating learner competencies before and after training were established.

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated adjustments to the original plan. We proactively secured a seven-month deadline extension to ensure all objectives were met. While some workshops and seminars transitioned to virtual formats, face-to-face events in both Estonia and Norway were successfully conducted during the project's final months (Spring 2022). The distribution events also proceeded as planned, in-person.

Our partnership extends beyond the project's completion. We are currently planning a collaborative network for patient safety educators in the Baltic and Nordic regions through a separate Nordplus project. This network envisions future participation from other Baltic and Nordic countries through intensive summer school courses focused on the new curriculum.

Disseminating project results has been a priority. Joint presentations at conferences, a published scientific article, and four ongoing manuscripts based on the project's findings showcase our efforts.

Significantly, a member institution of the Estonian working group is initiating doctoral research at the University of Tartu in 2022. This research will explore the implementation and effectiveness of the project's collaborative learning principles in healthcare worker training.

International collaboration offers invaluable opportunities for learning from and sharing experiences with colleagues abroad. In the field of education, which is deeply intertwined with national work practices and challenges, international cooperation allows us to understand the adaptability of practices across borders.

Our project serves as a prime example. Despite differences between Estonia and Norway, we discovered striking similarities in our patient safety concerns. Comparing master’s degree programs at our partner universities revealed strengths and weaknesses in each curriculum. By leveraging the expertise of academic staff and practitioners from both countries, we were able to jointly develop a comprehensive curriculum that integrates the best aspects of Estonian and Norwegian nursing practices in patient safety. Ultimately, this translates to safer care for everyone seeking healthcare services.

Project promoter: Tallinn University
Project manager: Karmen Toros
Partners: Oslo Metropolitan University

The project partners shared a common interest: developing a more effective child protection system that prioritizes children's right to participate in assessments. Dr. Falch-Eriksen identified Dr. Toros' research on the Estonian child protection system, leading to online communication and co-authorship of several scientific articles. This collaboration established trust and solidified the foundation for future research and development activities. COMPENCA marks their first jointly funded project focused on child participation in child protection assessments.

The project thrived due to the strong and trusting relationship between the partners. Regular weekly conversations, including "anti-challenge discussions," facilitated proactive identification and mitigation of potential risks. Throughout the project, Tallinn University never felt the need for independent problem-solving; solutions were consistently developed collaboratively. COMPENCA has paved the way for further joint project proposals.

COMPENCA aimed to enhance understanding of children's participation and encourage practitioners to implement effective strategies for child engagement at national and international levels. This was achieved through the development of three open-access books:

(a) "Professional Practice in Child Protection and the Child's Right to Participate" (English)
(b) "Child Protection Work and the Child's Right to Participate" (Estonian translation)
(c) "Child Protection Work and the Child's Right to Participate" (Norwegian translation, publication in March 2023)

The COVID-19 pandemic minimally impacted project results. While the initial plan included a short course/seminar in Estonia, travel restrictions necessitated a pivot to writing the book, complemented by online support seminars for chapter authors. Recognizing the pandemic's potential impact, these adjustments were made proactively.

The project's legacy extends beyond its completion. The COMPENCA books are being integrated into curriculum at both universities.  At Tallinn University, the English book will be compulsory reading for courses on child protection approaches, child protection work, and solution-oriented work with children and families, starting Fall 2022. Additionally, a new course, "Child's Rights Seminar," based on the COMPENCA book, is under development. The book has also been presented at various international conferences.

The partnership between Tallinn University and Oslo Metropolitan University continues. Discussions regarding new project proposals are ongoing, with the immediate plan being a collaborative 2023 eTwinning project on children's rights. Co-authorship of scientific articles and joint brainstorming for future research and development activities remain active endeavours.

Project promoter: University of Tartu
Project manager: Kristina Mullamaa
Partners: University of Iceland

The University of Tartu, in collaboration with the University of Iceland, implemented the project "Teacher training programme and web-based materials pool for teachers of Swedish as the general language in Estonia and in Iceland”.

The project focused on contemporary language teaching methodologies and learning/teaching dynamics in higher education, particularly for Swedish language instruction. Two international training meetings were held, alongside open lectures. These lectures addressed innovations in the European Language Learning Framework Program and historical perspectives on language learning theories. Additionally, an online seminar explored the distinct characteristics of teaching in higher education and the multifaceted role of lecturers.

Furthermore, a project website was created, hosting a comprehensive resource pool of educational materials relevant to the training program's themes.

The University of Iceland proved to be an excellent partner. Their experience with distance learning, necessitated by geographical distance and climate, offered valuable insights applicable to the Estonian context. Notably, the University of Iceland boasts expertise in e-learning and embedded learning methodologies. Their "Learning Swedish" platform, initially an e-learning environment, is currently evolving into a MOOC (Massive Open Online Course).

Beyond understanding Icelandic teaching practices, the collaboration facilitated discussions on teaching analysis and broader philosophical considerations surrounding the education system.

The project's impact extends beyond its immediate outcomes. Knowledge and experience were exchanged, broadening perspectives, and introducing new approaches to university education in diverse environments. This has undoubtedly empowered participants to re-evaluate and conceptualize their roles, enriching their worldviews, methodologies, and knowledge base in the field of higher education teaching.

The project also holds long-term value. Plans are underway to expand the collaboration to include additional universities across the Baltic and Nordic regions. Cooperation with the University of Iceland will undoubtedly continue in this area, with a more specific focus on professional topics such as the use of figurative language (idioms) and grammar.

Project promoter: Estonian Free Church Theological Seminary 
Project manager: Einike Pilli
Partners: Norwegian School of Leadership and Theology

Estonian Free Church Theological Seminary successfully implemented the project "Staff Mobility in Higher Education" in collaboration with the Norwegian School of Leadership and Theology.

The Seminary selected the Norwegian institution for two key reasons. Firstly, the schools shared a similar profile—both being theological seminaries of free churches. Secondly, existing personal connections with some Norwegian staff facilitated initial communication.

An unexpected benefit emerged during the project. The Norwegian partner possessed expertise in areas where the Seminary sought development, making them an ideal knowledge-sharing partner.

Overall, cooperation with the Norwegian partner was smooth. While an internal change in the Seminary's project coordinator mid-project presented some hurdles, the shared learning experience remained positive for both institutions. Notably, the new coordinator's prior experience living in Norway proved advantageous.

The project's primary objective – to acquire new practices and strengthen ties between the two schools – was fully achieved. While the COVID-19 pandemic delayed implementation, it didn't directly impact the final results.

Estonian Free Church Theological Seminary is keen to continue collaborating with the Norwegian School of Leadership and Theology on joint initiatives, including both on-site and online teaching. An agreement for the 2023/24 academic year is already in place. Additionally, the Seminary is actively seeking funding opportunities for a joint international conference.

International collaboration projects offer a wealth of benefits for participating institutions. Partners can learn from each other's practices, participate in joint research, enrich course content with international perspectives, and expose students to diverse teaching styles. Bilateral visits further enhance these benefits by fostering a sense of community and inspiring active research engagement among participants.

Project promoter: UT Viljandi Culture Academy
Project manager: Ave Matsin
Partners: TTK University of Applied, Sciences (TTK UAS), University of South-Eastern Norway and FIE Rannar Lehis / Liinavabrik

University of Tartu, in collaboration of TTK University of Applied Sciences (TTK UAS), University of South-Eastern Norway and FIE Rannar Lehis / Liinavabrik OÜ successfully completed the project titled "Estonian and Norwegian local sheep wool - research and study materials for textile students in higher education".

When selecting partners, the project ensured representation not only from Estonian and Norwegian universities offering textile specializations, but also from wool factories in both countries. This strategy aimed to foster long-term cooperation in wool development beyond the project's lifespan. The strong foundation for collaboration was further bolstered by existing relationships between the main partners, who had collaborated on previous projects. A shared passion for wool further united all participants.

The project's motivation stemmed from the underutilization of local sheep wool in Estonia. Prevalent misconceptions about quality resulted in a significant portion (85-90%) of the wool being undervalued or discarded as waste. The project aimed to address this issue by researching and testing the quality and properties of wool from common sheep breeds in both Estonia and Norway. This data would then be used to create educational materials for textile students. The broader goal was to encourage the use of local sheep wool in textile production.

Fortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic had minimal impact on project execution. While planned meetings and intensive study weeks faced slight delays, all project objectives were ultimately achieved.

The project successfully produced the educational resource "Estonian and Norwegian sheep’s wool as a textile material. Production, properties, and possibilities of use on the example of the wool of six sheep breeds". This freely available resource provides an overview of wool properties, processing methods, and detailed results from project-conducted wool testing and the resulting yarns and textiles. It is further enriched by three educational videos showcasing sheep shearing in Estonia, Norwegian wool, and Estonian wool sorting.

Two scientific articles based on project findings are currently in preparation. Additionally, the University of Tartu is supporting the continued development of local woolen fabrics through its experimental development program. The project partners remain committed to ongoing collaboration.

International projects like this one are invaluable for broadening perspectives and acquiring new knowledge. They also encourage self-reflection within participating institutions. Such funding opportunities allow the development of ideas that might otherwise lack sufficient resources. In this specific case, the project aims to inspire a shift towards addressing a waste management issue, ultimately contributing to environmental solutions. Furthermore, the project fostered essential personal connections between colleagues, laying the groundwork for future collaborative endeavours.

Project promoter: Tallinn University of Technology
Project manager: Mihkel Kahju
Partners: Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) ja ProfMOF AS

Tallinn University of Technology led the project "Multi-disciplinary Knowledge Integration for Digital Manufacturing (Digiman)," partnering with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and ProfMOF AS.

The project journey began in Spring 2021 with the formation of a brainstorming team. Recognizing the need for a Norwegian partner, a team member recalled a potential contact at NTNU – Andrei Lobov, a former student at Tallinn University of Technology. Additionally, Allan Niidu, a chemistry researcher at Virumaa College, suggested ProfMOF AS, a unique chemical company with expertise in digital chemistry, as a potential partner. Through these connections, the project team progressively solidified, culminating in a shared vision and formal agreement by Fall 2021.

Digiman aimed to create a novel course format and structure, combining practicality and appeal for master's students, new doctoral students, and entrepreneurs seeking specialized knowledge. The project successfully developed a modular course consisting of nine units:

1. Digital Production Overview
2. Business and Administration
3. Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
4. Digital Energy Production
5. Digital Materials Science
6. Materials - Acoustic Emission
7. Digital Chemistry
8. Digital Technical Design
9. Robotics in Digital Manufacturing

The project's deliverables were showcased at the project dissemination event, available for viewing at: https://onlineexpo.com/en/digiman/.

The COVID-19 pandemic minimally impacted the project's execution. While physical collaboration, particularly with senior members, was sometimes preferred, the pandemic did not pose a major obstacle. The project acknowledged the additional workload participants shouldered beyond their regular duties, and the team's strong collaborative spirit ensured successful task completion and mutual support.

The project fostered potential future collaborations between participants. For instance, Karl Petter Lillerud and Allan Niidu from ProfMOF AS discussed, the possibility of short courses for Virumaa College students and company internships. Additionally, Karle Nutonen and Liang Zhang explored collaborative research opportunities in robotics. While no large-scale projects are currently planned, the project undoubtedly broadened participants' perspectives and professional networks.

International projects play a crucial role in expanding individual and collective perspectives and forging valuable connections. These projects encourage participants to step outside their comfort zones, embrace new challenges, and develop their skillsets beyond their immediate areas of expertise.

Project promoter: Tallinn University of Technology
Project manager: Maria Cecilia Sarmiento Guerin
Partners: Norwegian University of Life Sciences

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) led the project "An Innovative Platform for Estonia-Norway Research-Based Teaching in Bioinformatics and Gene Editing," with the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) as their partner.

The project aimed to develop resources for teaching two cutting-edge technologies in life sciences: bioinformatics and gene editing. Led by research group leaders with expertise in these areas and extensive university teaching experience, the project developed materials for lectures, lab work, group discussions, and assignments.

These materials were piloted in two intensive 10-day courses, with a total of 31 Master's and doctoral students from both universities participating. The courses offered students valuable knowledge and the opportunity to interact with a different culture and learning environment. Notably, the TalTech-developed materials were translated into Estonian, making them accessible to local students and international Master's and doctoral students in the future. NMBU, where all Master's and doctoral programmes are conducted in English, did not require translation of the materials.

The project teams from both countries met regularly, both online and in person, to develop the courses and refine the materials based on student feedback obtained after the intensive courses. This continuous interaction over two years fostered strong collaboration between the teams on both scientific and pedagogical levels.

The project culminated in a dissemination event showcasing the project and its outcomes. Doctoral students shared their experiences, emphasizing the knowledge gained and the benefits of intercultural exchange and travel. The event highlighted policy considerations regarding gene editing, a topic relevant to various stakeholders beyond academia, and welcomed participants from both the private and public sectors.

Project promoter: University of Tartu
Project manager: Miriam A. Hickey
Partners: University of Iceland

University of Tartu led the project " Development of Curricula via International Collaboration," with the University of Iceland as their partner

The University of Tartu partnered with the University of Iceland on the project "Development of Curricula via International Collaboration" to address a decline in physician research participation and the challenges faced by aspiring medical researchers. Medical student engagement in research is often limited, despite calls from major international medical organizations for increased physician involvement.

This collaborative program offered unique research opportunities for medical students while expanding their curriculum with 6 ECTS credits (EAPs) upon successful completion. Students travelled to the partner university and conducted short research projects in basic sciences. The project aimed to assess the program's impact on students' research skills, transferable skills, and their interest in future research participation.

Initial student feedback indicates positive development in both research and transferable skills. Data collection is ongoing and will be presented in a future scientific publication. Additionally, guidelines are being developed to assist other researchers and institutions in creating international research programs (submitted for publication).

Students participated in public presentations, sharing their experiences and the importance of science in medical education. Moreover, data from their research contributes to relevant scientific publications.

The program has successfully encouraged young medical students to engage with basic science research. The results highlight the significant benefits of international collaboration in research opportunities, particularly for students at smaller universities. This project aligns with the European Union's goals of Europeanisation and harmonising education within the EU, as all participants fulfilled their academic requirements and earned 6 ECTS credits.

Project promoter: University of Tartu
Partners: Directorate for Higher Education and Skills

The Department of Scandinavian Studies at the University of Tartu's Institute of World and Cultures provides students with the opportunity to major or minor in Norwegian language and literature. Additionally, general language courses are available to all students and lifelong learners seeking to improve their Norwegian language skills, regardless of their primary field of study.

The department has a longstanding tradition of hosting visiting professors, offering students the unique advantage of learning the language and culture directly from native speakers. This practice has demonstrably boosted student motivation in coursework and participation in cultural events showcasing Scandinavia. Notably, the university lacked a Norwegian language native speaker between 2014 and 2019. The EEA grant-funded lectureship has been instrumental in continuing and strengthening the teaching of Norwegian language and culture.

The project aimed to achieve several key objectives:

• Enhance the quality of teaching and curriculum content.
• Foster new collaborative networks.
• Introduce and promote subjects within the Scandinavian languages and cultures curriculum to potential learners in Estonian schools.

To achieve these goals and promote Norwegian values, culture, society, and interdisciplinary and cross-cultural aspects, the lecturer organized various public events: Scandinavian film nights, seminars, exhibitions, and celebrations of Norwegian holidays.

The project targeted the following groups:

• Students majoring in Norwegian language and culture.
• Students enrolled in other Scandinavian Studies programs.
• Participants in practical Norwegian language courses.
• The audience, including potential new learners from Estonian schools and lifelong learners.

The project's success was measured by a benchmark of at least 30 students per semester participating in the guest lecturer's courses. This target was successfully achieved by the project's conclusion.

Project promoter: University of Tartu
Project manager: Äli Leijen
Partners: Tallinn University, University of Oslo, University of Stavanger

The University of Tartu, in collaboration with Tallinn University, successfully completed the project titled "Developing and enhancing the teaching quality of inclusive education curriculum".

This project focused on two key objectives to enhance inclusive education in Estonian schools and kindergartens:

• Teacher Training: To equip teachers with the skills to effectively implement inclusive education principles, five in-service training programs were developed and delivered. A total of 129 school and kindergarten staff members participated in these programs.
• Developing Research Expertise: To strengthen research capabilities in the field of inclusive education, the project supported the development of the research teams at the University of Tartu and Tallinn University. This included supporting four doctoral students whose theses explored topics related to inclusive education, with two specifically focusing on the project's training programs.

Building on the success of the in-service training programs, the University of Tartu and Tallinn University launched unique Master's programs in "Inclusive Education." These programs award graduates with a Master's degree and a senior teacher qualification, specializing in supporting students with special educational needs. As of today, 183 students have enrolled in these programs.

The project's research team actively shared its findings by publishing several scientific articles and presenting project activities at various events. Additionally, the project benefitted from the expertise of specialists from the University of Oslo and the University of Stavanger.