Facilitating integration & interaction Polimi has implemented several strategies to ensure that online students feel integrated and actively involved in the academic and social life of the school. All our distance learning programmes still include some in-person sessions, usually at the start of the programme and again about halfway through. These are designed to create the group initially, plus enable networking and experiential activities to be carried out in person; in this way, valuable relationships can be developed early on. On top of these specific activities, which are all part of the curriculum, the school organises face-to-face meetings such as bootcamps and networking days. At these, online students can gather on campus, integrate with colleagues from in‑person programmes and participate in practical sessions and social activities. After this first week, the courses are designed in a largely experiential manner. Students have access to advanced platforms that facilitate interaction with lecturers and counterparts, making for an engaging learning experience. Through digital tools and discussion forums, they can actively participate in lessons, even if it’s done remotely. Forging connections through networking activities Online programmes often include group projects and collaborative activities that allow students to work together on real-world case studies and concrete projects, facilitating discussion, collaboration and the exchange of ideas. For example, every Flex EMBA module has a session that involves a real, practical case study, which students undertake in groups but asynchronously, to allow them to work beyond the live sessions. Moreover, students develop 10 challenges during the master’s programme: these are concrete projects provided by businesses,
debates and the exchange of views. For example, by actively taking part in discussions on online forums, or by using synchronous sessions as important opportunities for interacting and discussing, or positively engaging with digitally designed networking activities. In addition, it is very important to be willing to open up and create relationships at the master’s scheduled in-person sessions, as well as at a selection of specific in-person events of interest. Also not to be overlooked is the management of assignments relating to the courses, which allow participants to actively discuss specific topics. Very often, students set up small virtual study groups to explore topics of common interest, discuss group projects and exchange ideas. This is also an effective way of building more lasting bonds with one’s peers. Lastly, it is important to use all means of connecting with community members; participating in alumni groups or communities helps students stay up to date on events, networking opportunities and developments in their chosen sector. The idea is to be proactive and to strike the right balance between virtual interaction and one’s own personal commitment. Being present and available, even if only online, can create lasting relationships that are hugely valuable for the future.
“Being present and available, even if only online, can create lasting relationships that are hugely valuable for the future”
on which students work in groups remotely and present directly to the company managers. Distance learning programmes have dedicated and specific networking activities. Polimi regularly organises online networking events, such as workshops, roundtables, webinars with industry experts and chats over coffee, providing opportunities for direct interaction with the academic community and industry professionals. Participants are invited to all the networking activities designed for students as well as alumni, whether they are held in person or in hybrid mode. Even for those studying online, thematic student clubs are available, from groups focused on specific sectors such as supply chain management to clubs dedicated to more cross-cutting interests such as innovation and entrepreneurship. These groups represent an important opportunity to connect with members of the cohort and alumni. This allows each individual student to stay aligned with all the activities that the school carries
20 Ambition • ISSUE 3 • 2025
Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online