On 16 June, participants of the ACE²-EU Staff BIP “Build your BIP with ACE²-EU: Developing Successful BIPs from Concept to Implementation” continued their journey from understanding the fundamentals of Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) towards designing their own programme concepts.
The second day focused on translating theory into practice and exploring what makes a successful BIP. Participants examined lessons learned from previous initiatives and reflected on how these experiences can inform future programme development across the ACE²-EU Alliance.
The day began with an inspiring session by Signe Bahšteina, who shared her experiences from co-organising a BIP. Reflecting on both challenges and successes, she provided valuable insights into the practical realities of developing and delivering an international programme.
Some of the lessons learned may appear self-evident at first glance, such as the importance of a clear thematic focus and maintaining coherence throughout the programme. Equally important is finding the right balance between ambition and feasibility, avoiding the temptation to fit too much content into a limited timeframe.
Other observations proved more surprising. Participants discussed the significant role played by social and cultural activities and the importance of allocating sufficient time for networking, informal exchange, and community building. These elements are often just as valuable as the academic content itself in creating a meaningful international learning experience.
Particular attention was also given to the integration of European values into BIP design. From icebreaker activities to collaborative learning formats, participants explored how values such as inclusion, diversity, democratic participation, and intercultural understanding can be embedded throughout a programme rather than treated as standalone topics.
Building on these reflections, participants worked in groups to develop ideas for incorporating EU values into concrete learning activities. The discussions generated a wide range of creative approaches and demonstrated the potential of BIPs to promote both academic and civic learning.
The remainder of the morning focused on the practical processes surrounding BIPs within the ACE²-EU Alliance. Participants examined current procedures, discussed organisational requirements, and reflected on how BIPs could be be used more strategically to support the Alliance’s long-term goals in education, collaboration, and internationalisation.
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to hands-on BIP development. Working in interdisciplinary groups, participants began designing their own programme concepts, drawing on the knowledge and ideas gathered throughout the event. By the end of the session, three thematic proposals for future BIPs had emerged, including ideas for both Staff and Student BIPs.
With concrete concepts beginning to take shape, the second day marked an important step from understanding the BIP format towards actively creating new opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and international learning across the ACE²-EU Alliance.
