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Methods

How it's done - studying IR Online

Freie Universität Berlin's advanced graduate degree program IR Online combines e-learning (90%) with regular periods of on-site-instruction (10%). It is thus a blended learning program, which provides you with both, the flexibility of a distance learning program and the advantages of personalized tutoring and face-to-face instruction.

E-Learning

is based on a special online management system called Blackboard. With acceptance to the program students receive a personal login that enables them to enter this e-learning platform and to enjoy state-of- the-art e-education while acquiring additional competencies essential in today's service-oriented and virtual environments.

The teaching is framed and supported by digitalized contents which include various multimedia formats such as scanned texts, audio files, software, pictures and interactive graphs. Overall, the use of interactive and innovative tools, e.g. a virtual library and discussion boards, ensures that studying International Relations online becomes a both challenging and exciting learning experience. In addition to multimedia study material and communication within the study program, the website of IR Online operates as a gateway to a rich resource of links and research databases. These special services are offered on an exclusive basis to IR Online students and provide access to the libraries and research facilities of the Freie Universität Berlin.

Experience a sample unit here!

E-learning benefits:

• up-to-date content
• Flexible time and place management
• Multimedia study material
• State-of-the-art Online Learning Management System
• Professional, personalised E-Tutoring and Feedback

In-house-classes

In addition to the online-teaching, there are two in-house-classes per year of study. Each of them lasts for one week (Mon-Fri) and is taking place in Berlin, one at the beginning of October, one at the beginning of March (specific dates t.b.a.).

In-house-classes provide students with the opportunity to meet their tutors as well as the program team, but also to get to know their fellow students. The international flair during these classes is unique and something to remember. During the week students will enjoy intensive seminars with their module tutors which give them the opportunity to discuss particular topics of the modules in more detail. Also, the sessions are designed to actively develop soft skills and the ability to work in an international team through innovative simulations of international negotiation processes.

Through discussions and round-table meetings students sharpen their communicative competencies and learn how to present clear-cut statements in an intercultural context. These personal meetings provide program participants with an excellent opportunity to create a network of young dedicated IR professionals and give you the opportunity to make contact with decision-makers from different IR related fields.