Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Advanced Materials IFAMDr. Effi Baumgarten is responsible for the online learning offers in the Training Center for Adhesive Bonding Technology at Fraunhofer IFAM and gives an insight into the new course concept Adhesive Bonding Engineer Online (blended learning). Videos with professional speakers and with lectures by Fraunhofer experts, learning checks and group chats - these are just a few of the multimedia formats that make learning easier for participants in online self-study.
Dr Baumgarten, in the case of Adhesive Bonding Engineer Online (blended learning), some of the content is taught online. What does that look like?
The course begins with a three-week attendance phase in September so that participants can get to know each other as usual. The course then continues as a multimedia online course and finally ends with a three-week attendance phase. The exams are taken during the attendance phases. During the online phase, which lasts several months, we offer participants varied and interactive learning formats. This optimally supports and motivates independent learning. At online meetings and in the forum, participants can ask questions and discuss topics. The online learning portal also offers chat functions and a calendar of events so that groups can join together for their group tasks. Participants can independently check their level of knowledge at any time with the help of learning checks. As with the face-to-face course, the Adhesive Bonding Engineer Online also includes experts from outside the company and from Fraunhofer IFAM, for example to provide a practical insight into the topic of corrosion protection. Quiz formats and videos presented by both professional speakers and scientists from Fraunhofer IFAM provide variety and enjoyment in learning.
You can now look back on several blended learning courses that have been carried out. In your experience, what are the advantages of online training at Fraunhofer IFAM?
Blended learning brings some advantages and we notice that the interest in digital further education formats is increasing. Participants save the costs and time of travel and can flexibly integrate the training into their work and combine it with their free time and family. Also very important: participants can learn at their own pace and, if necessary, watch a learning video several times. We attach great importance to a high-quality learning concept so that the participants also pass the examination. One participant recently told me that the course was very enriching because of the different multimedia content.
To whom do you recommend taking the course?
Anyone who would like to learn independently online and at the same time save the travel costs and time of a face-to-face course. As already mentioned, online courses offer the advantage of learning at your own pace and at the times you choose. However, participants should bring a certain amount of discipline with them. By the way: If you are still struggling with the technology, we also offer technology check-ups.
Thank you very much for the interview, Dr. Baumgarten!