We welcome undergraduate students or graduates from different cultural backgrounds and views on education to join our local students in discussing education and teaching. Dialogue like this will help you clarify your own ideas on education and will help you to broaden your perspective on teaching; after three months you will be able to return home with a deeper insight into your own teaching practice.

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The International Class course consists of four core modules:

1. Christian education in historical perspective

Education is a tradition with a rich history.  From Aristotle and St. Augustine to Dutch thinkers such as Waterink and Bavinck, the tradition offers insights and theories from which we can learn.  By starting with the background and the contexts of these authors and continuing on to the critical evaluation of their thinking, this module aims at deepening your understanding of Christian pedagogy.   

2. Christian education and classroom practice

We will focus on linking theory and practice. What does it mean to be a Christian teacher? What are the implications for your everyday classroom practice? Is the biblical principle of stewardship one that is applicable to your teaching practice?

Important themes will be discussed in small groups: the relationship between teacher and pupils, for example. Not all Christians have the same view on authority in the classroom, and we hope to offer you an opportunity to learn from each other. We will also discuss knowledge and the way we can share knowledge with pupils. 

3. Christian belief in personal and professional life

Your Christian worldview and your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ have a profound effect on your life. What effect do they have on you as a teacher? What does the kingdom of God mean to you in your classroom? During this course these aspects will be explained from different points of view. We are going to explore different views of God and of mankind through dialogue.

4. Intercultural development

During this course you will learn new things and gain new insights in your own culture and cultures from all over the world. With the help of a personal tutor you will have the opportunity to reflect on what these mean to you personally and professionally. Windmills, clogs and tulips. Rembrand van Rhijn and Johannes Vermeer.  We look forward to offering you a glimpse of Dutch culture and history. Several excursions to Dutch landmarks and famous spots will be organised during your stay.

Student profile

Do you like challenges? Do you have affinity with other cultures? Are you well motivated and internationally minded?  The International Class – Christian Education offers you this unique opportunity!

Course date and deadlines for application

The next course will be held in 2021: 30 August till 21 November  2021 (provisional dates).It is a full-time course of study.  

• Academic deadline for application for non EU/EEA and OKP applicants:  7 March 2021.
  • DELTA deadline for OKP applicants: 15 March 2021.
• Academic deadline for non-fellowship and EU/EEA applicants: 1 June 2021.

Do you fit the profile?

• Christian identity -  Because we are a Christian Reformed university we invite Christian students to apply.
• Level of education - Prospective students must have completed at least two years of a Bachelor programme in  Education (or teacher training college), or two years of a Bachelor programme in Pedagogics. Graduates (teachers) are also welcome to apply.
• English -  The language of instruction will be English. Students must be able to read, write and speak English to be able to participate in the course. (Your college/university/ employer may be asked to give an indication of your language proficiency).
• Authorisation -  Should your application be successful, your university/institution will have to authorise your participation.
• Age - We welcome students in the age group 18 to 35 (upper age limit: 35 years).

How to enrol for the International Class

1. If you have more questions about the programme or would like to enquire about availability, contact Ms. E.L. (Lydia) Bor.
2. If you would like to become an exchange student, please register by filling in the application form.
3. Driestar Christian University, for Teacher Education will then contact you for an interview.
4. After admission, our International Office will advise you on the preparations for your stay. (In case of no scholarship, you will receive after payment the Letter of Acceptance and VISA Letter - if needed).
5. Check the preparation-stay site and the site for information on Visa procedures. 
6. Check this website for grants and scholarships.
7. Get in touch! Feel free to contact us if you would like more information about the programme and about admission.  

Want to know more?

Get in touch! Feel free to contact us if you would like more information about the programme and about admission.   

Mix of students

A limited number of participants will be admitted. Since Driestar Christian University, for Teacher Education, wants to guarantee good tutorship and a number of excursions need to be organised, the number of students to the International Class is limited to twenty per year. This means that ten Dutch students from Driestar Christian University will allowed to enrol alongside ten international students. You are welcome to apply, whether or not your university has an exchange agreement with our institute.

Preparation for the International Class

Before you come to Gouda and the Netherlands, you will be required to do some research (pre-assignment). You will need some knowledge of the educational system in your country to be able to participate in the class discussions. We also expect you to know your own view on education. If you are accepted as a course member you will receive assignments and instructions to help you prepare in more detail.

Credits/certificate

We offer you credits for the modules according to the Bologna system (the European Credits Transfer System, ECTS). After completing the core modules successfully, you will receive 15 ECTS credits. 

By doing extra  modules you can add another 5 ECTS credits and obtain 20 ECTS credits during your three-month stay (on average, one credit requires 28 hours of study).

After successfully completing the course you will be receive a Certificate, indicating that you participated in the International Class and completed the 15(20) ECTS credit course.

Costs

Tuition Fees: Students from partner universities abroad (with a formal agreement with Driestar Christian University e.g.  ERASMUS + or other agreements) do not need to pay tuition fees.

All other students are required to pay the tuition fee of € 1195,-.

Apply 

• Academic deadline for application for non EU/EEA and OKP applicants:  7 March 2021.
  • DELTA deadline for OKP applicants: 15 March 2021.
• Academic deadline for non-fellowship and EU/EEA applicants: 1 June 2021.