510978-TEMPUS-1-2010-1-AT-TEMPUS-JPCR

Geoinformatics: Managing Energy, Resources, Environment

Coordinator: Paris Lodron Universitдt Salzburg

Address: Hellbrunnerstrasse, 34 Salzburg 5020, AT

Phone: 0043-662-8044-5203

Fax: 0043-662-8044-5206

Contact: Prof. Dr. Josef Strobl

E-mail: josef.strobl@sbg.ac.at

Web-site: www.tempusgem.zgis.net/

Partners from Kyrgyzstan:
- State enterprise Kyrgyzgilkommunsoyus
- Kyrgyz State University of Construction,Transport and Architecture
- Osh Technological University named after M.M. Adyshev
- Ministry of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic
- Osh Enterprise of High Voltage Station
- Osh engine generating station
- Ministry of Industry, Power and Fuel Resources of Kyrgyz Republic • University of Central Asia

DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT:
The main objective of the project is the development and implementation of a new university program in Geospatial Management to be offered on the second level (Masters) at seven participating Central Asian Universities. The objective is realized based on an analysis of qualification demand and definition of prerequisites, and through an interdisciplinary curriculum joining spatial sciences with resource, environmental and in particular energy systems management.

Training of academic faculty as teachers of the curriculum will be paralleled by the development of a syllabus referencing online learning media, so that the program can be delivered at all universities by blended learning. This is one important element in the overall quality management strategy, requiring strong cooperation between European and Central Asian universities in order to overcome current problems in academic quality and integrity.

In addition, plans call for the design and installation of eLearning/blended learning study labs in the participating departments. This equipment will facilitate the joint use of qualified faculty, the leveraging of common resources available online, and collaborative projects plus additional interaction among students and faculty.

Several measures are planned to ensure the long term sustainability of the new study program. First, teachers as well as students will be supported in improving their English language skills. Secondly, close cooperation with the resources (energy) industry ensures the applicability of skills and knowledge and the employability of graduates. Thirdly, the development of (online facilitated) communities involving stakeholders is aiming at enhancing quality and sustainability.

Overall, the program in Geospatial Management will not only qualify a new generation of highly employable students at the intersection of geosciences, energy systems, resource and environmental management, but also contribute to structural and societal development.

Budget:
888,521.90 euro

Duration:
36 Month