Mapúa University enhances the student experience via global classrooms

It has been said that knowledge is power. In this modern digital-driven world, the access to information to fuel this knowledge has been greater than ever. Joining the workforce armed with the tools and global perspective needed to navigate this space is the golden ticket. This was the impetus for Mapúa University to create a more holistic campus experience to prepare its students for a fast-paced future. Their collaboration with Arizona State University enhances these program offerings through its Global Classrooms, where the world is, literally at their students’ fingertips.

School work, especially for college students, can be quite challenging. Trying to find that balance between attending classes, passing tests, doing extra-curricular work, setting goals, and spending time with family and friends can be overwhelming. Not to mention growing up and navigating the greater space beyond the four walls of the classroom. Psychology major Jade Vincent Raymundo describes the student experience as “Keeping informed as it will be our sword and shield in a world full of uncertainties. There are lots of opportunities everywhere, and those who know about them will be able to utilize and grab each opportunity.”

Mapúa University, being among the top educational institutions in the country, used these markers as the foundation for the business and health science courses they crafted with Arizona University. The students also have the chance to benefit even more from key pillars – Global Immersion, Real-Experiential Learning, Digital Mastery and Advanced and Immersive Facilities. “One of the good things about studying business at Mapúa is the abundance of resources and endless learning opportunities. It allows us to continuously absorb and apply our knowledge, making our learning journey seamless and dynamic,” points out Business Administration student Angelique France Santiago. “Moreover, Mapúa provides various free resources that greatly benefit business students, further enriching our education.”

One of the most important innovations brought about by the partnership are the Global Classrooms, driving an internationalized education for its students. They now have the opportunity to share a synchronous learning experience with peers from all over the world, with classes being led by professors from the ASU-Cintana Alliance,while maintaining affordability. “If our students can’t afford to go to the US, then the US can come to their classroom.” shares Dr. Jagdeep Jassel, Dean of Mapua’s business school. “We have Global classroom initiatives and global signature courses which will be taught by an international faculty.” Business Administration student Janna Fel Mari A. Lucea echoes how valuable this resource has been to her as a student.  “The presence of ASU faculty brought a fresh perspective and an international dimension to the classroom, enriching the overall educational environment,” adding positive impact on my learning experience.” She also found the active learning techniques like group discussions, case studies, and collaborative projects as critical in encouraging student participation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Alongside the professors of ASU are special sessions by industry leaders and subject matter experts, helping them gain valuable global perspectives on various fields of study.

The Global Classrooms have become a cost-effective way to connect students with ASU’s renowned faculty, given that Mapúa also has campuses in Laguna and in Mindanao. Access to the best resource speakers is made possible with minimal impact on tuition and fees. This platform also provides students with access to over 600 online courses offered by ASU’s network – enabling them to develop a worldview mindset and prepare themselves for a thriving career. To this, Lucea adds, “The collaboration between local and international professors provided a globalized educational experience and expanded our horizons, enhancing our academic growth and preparing us for a global workforce.”

Mapúa University takes pride in being able to offer students with a unique experience during their time on campus. Access to globalized and internationalized learning sessions via the Global Classrooms, in collaboration with the ASU-Cintana Alliance, has been a game changer in business and health science education. “Mapúa University provided me with a nurturing and stimulating learning environment that had not only helped me grow academically but has also shaped me into being versatile,” explains accountancy major Aliyah Jem Evangelista. “Meeting people from different programs and departments not only expanded my knowledge beyond my field but it has also exposed me to how our respective fields intersect.” As they approach graduation, these students are guaranteed one thing – a firm foundation driven by Mapúa’s key learning pillars, enhanced by ASU’s worldview, that will set them up for future success.  “Growing up can have many other different meanings,” is how Dr. Jag presents it. “How do we embrace digital? How do we embrace international components? How do we embrace real life work experience? We need to volunteer for this. We want to encourage our students and teachers to opt for this challenge.”