DEADLINE 30 June - International Bologna Conference – The Social Dimension, 11 - 13 July 2011, Berlin, Germany

International Bologna Conference – The Social Dimension
11 - 13 July 2011
Berlin, Germany

Stocktaking and Future Perspectives of Student Affairs and Services

Research - teaching - student affairs and services: these are the pillars of well-performing higher education systems. Excellence in education calls for excellent social infrastructures and support mechanisms for students. The social dimension is a key factor for the success of the European Higher Education area.

The European Higher Education Area is shaped by student affairs and services – referred to as the social dimension - but they are organised differently, depending on educational concepts, the structure of universities, and the way the social support of students is organised.

The diversity of this situation holds the potential for benchmarking and exchange of good practice, and for mutual learning outcomes in the context of exchanges between student services/affairs professionals.

The conference therefore aims to:
- analyse the social and economic situation of students in Europe
- take stock of existing student affairs and services models
- discuss challenges and future perspectives for student affairs and services
- define the contribution that student affairs and services can make to improve the competitiveness of the European Higher Education Area
- strengthen the social dimension of the Bologna process

Beginning with an analysis of the social and economic situation of students in Europe, and current developments of higher education institutions, the needs of universities and students are analysed in order to draw conclusions on the effects on student affairs and services.

Looking at different situations in various countries, the stocktaking of student affairs and services in Europe is done in case studies, looking at relevant practices, existing models, strengths and weaknesses as well as challenges for student affairs and services.

Based on current research on the effects and impacts that they have on students’ academic success and educational development, the strategic role of student affairs and services will be discussed. In conclusion, experts in student affairs and services from other continents will be asked to reflect on the social dimension of higher education in Europe.

The conference shall end with conclusions and a communiqué on the further development of student affairs/student services in the European Higher Education are.

Expected Outcomes
- Stocktaking of student affairs and services in Europe
- Strategies for the development of the social dimension
- Networking and international exchange in student affairs/services


Who should attend?
- student affairs and services staff
- academics and university staff (student support, international offices etc.)
- international exchange agencies in higher education
- public authorities in the field of higher education on national and regional levels
- European associations in higher education
- international organisations in higher
- student representatives

Registration
Fee
The registration fee for the conference is € 90,- to cover organizational costs and meals. The fee does not include any accommodation costs.

For International participants
Conference participants travelling from outside the European Union may require a visa to enter Germany to attend the conference. Please be prepared and apply early.

Deadline for registration is June 30, 2011

Find more information at the conference's website here