What is a master class?

A Masterclass can take a number of forms. However, typically it will be a minimum of a full day event focused around a clearly defined topic. The topic should explore an innovation or contemporary issue related to teaching and learning that will be of wide interest to ECIU member institutions. While the Masterclass is likely to include a major contribution from a recognised expert in the field the event needs to be designed and facilitated to engage participants in active forms of learning. 

Who can apply?

Applications are welcome from any individual or group from an ECIU member institution. We particularly welcome applications submitted from groups across more than one ECIU institution, which is reflected in the selection criteria.

When can you apply?

Each year the initial round of applications to host a Masterclass will be circulated by no later than the end of February. In some cases there may be a second call for proposals and if this occurs then specific details will provided about the application date.

What funding is available?

Successful Masterclass applications will be eligible for a grant of up to €4,000 to assist with administration and delivery costs. The precise amount allocated will be determined based on the proposed budget submitted as part of the application process.

How do you apply?

All applications should follow the Masterclass application template which is a Google form with a link available on the ECIU website. Applications will not be evaluated until after the submission deadline. Members of the Steering Committee for Innovation in Teaching and Learning will evaluate proposals against the selection criteria listed below and all applicants will be informed of the outcome by no later than 1st April.

What are the selection criteria?

The ECIU Steering Committee for Teaching and Learning will evaluate Masterclass proposals according to the following criteria. Each proposal should include:

• An appealing title (click here to see what topics were already covered in previous master classes)
• An explicit target audience
• Justification for the Masterclass
• Short description of the Masterclass
• Quality and experience of the contributors
• Clearly defined learning outcomes
• Description of potential benefits for participants, member institutions and learners
• Statement of how the Masterclass supports or contributes to greater collaboration amongst ECIU members
• Statement of how the Masterclass is consistent with ECIU’s Teaching and Learning Statement and commitment to challenging conventional thinking
• Proposed evaluation methodology What type of evaluation is expected?

On completion of the Masterclass the key institutional contact is expected to provide the ECIU Steering Committee for Innovation in Teaching and Learning with a formal evaluation of the event. The Evaluation Report should be submitted to the ECIU General Secretary within two months of the event and as a minimum is required to provide data on participants’ overall satisfaction and perceived value of the Masterclass. Participants who complete the Masterclass may also be issued with a Certificate of Completion if the event lends itself to such formal recognition.