A three-day staff training titled “A Community of Practice for Teaching and Learning Developers” was held from 03 to 05 February 2026 at USTP – University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten in Austria, bringing together teaching and learning professionals from across the E³UDRES² alliance committed to advancing excellence in higher education. The event, which was organised together with the Service and Competence Center for Teaching/Learning Development and Educational Offers (LEARN), was designed as a collaborative space where participants could exchange ideas, reflect on shared challenges, and explore strategic approaches to strengthening teaching and learning development across institutions. Central to the programme was the concept of a community of practice, emphasizing peer learning, collective problem-solving, and sustained professional dialogue.
Learning through best practices
The training featured a diverse programme that combined theory and practice. Keynotes addressed topics such as the future of Teaching and Learning Centers, curriculum development in an era of transformation, and the future of learning within E³UDRES². Showcased examples included innovative approaches to staff development (Saxion), thematic quality assurance (UCLL), AI‑supported teaching practices (University of Bayreuth), teaching excellence framework (Sumy State University), purposeful curriculum design in teacher education (Jamk), and flexible teaching excellence programmes (USTP). These sessions offered concrete examples of how teaching excellence can be supported institutionally and at the practitioner level. A distinctive element of the programme was the use of peer consultancy, where participants worked collaboratively to address real challenges they face in their professional roles. Through structured dialogue and guided reflection, attendees gained fresh perspectives and actionable ideas, reinforcing the value of collegial support and shared expertise. Other interactive formats such as networking activities and an ideation sprint for future collaborations enabled participants to jointly explore solutions to pressing challenges, including sustainable implementation of development initiatives, engaging teachers in hybrid settings, leveraging AI tools responsibly, and integrating institutional digital learning strategies. Participants also gained insights into current developments, trends, and agreed procedures within the E³UDRES² alliance, reinforcing connections and fostering new collaborative opportunities across institutions.
Beyond the formal sessions, the training also fostered informal exchange and networking. A city tour through St. Pölten allowed participants to experience the local culture while continuing conversations in a relaxed setting, further strengthening professional connections. By combining strategic discussions, practical examples, and peer-driven support, the event showed the importance of collective approaches to advancing teaching and learning in higher education, in the E³UDRES² alliance and beyond.
