The OPVET project has the primary goal of supporting organizations in higher education. The aim is also to develop and reinforce (international) networks with upper secondary education, to increase the capacity and operate at a transnational level to internationalize the education and training of students in vocational teacher education (VET).

Preparing students

The educational cooperation at university level involves Norway, Finland and Italy. Mutually we prepare VET student teachers for international practice through three courses: English and storytelling, Intercultural communication and ICT.

Working with upper secondary schools

The project works closely with upper secondary schools in four countries (Norway, Germany, Italy and Finland). Upper secondary schools are vital partners in the project. They prepare for student teacher practicums and create links between different vocational education and training systems, businesses, and communities to promote a more modern, dynamic, committed and professional environment.

An additional OPVET objective is to build social, cultural and linguistic diversity at all levels of VET. Based on the experiences student teachers have in their university courses and international practicums, OPVET adds elements of student self-awareness and self-reporting by developing digital stories on their return. Research on relevant topics will in turn promote the development of excellence in VET. Partners will have the opportunity to work together towards mutually beneficial results and outcomes.

Pupils provide IT support

Heimdal Upper Secondary School in Trondheim fills a special role in the project. Pupils in this school provide IT support to the project, based on the school's extensive experience with implementing online learning tools.