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Description
he main reason that led us to the conception of this mobility project is the desire to create a new generation of specialists with more expertise in two areas of broad interest worldwide:
1) the acoustic domain of noise pollution,
2) the domain of alternative sources of energy from bio-fuels.
1.The dramatic impact of climate change is the result of air pollution. One important cause of climate change is the burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and gas. This is the source of most emissions for almost all economic sectors and accounts for more than 70% of global GHG emissions.
Besides the fact that fossil fuels have a devastating influence on the environment, the prices are now ten times their average over the last decade. As a result of the current situation, gasoline prices have increased as well, raising questions about the security of the EU''s and global energy supply.
Bio-fuels are used in many engineering fields and remain an open research field which could be improved or applied in thermal engines and more precisely for the internal combustion engines, like aircraft turboengines.
2.Noise pollution is the second important problem behind air pollution, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) linked to air traffic and road traffic. Many scientific papers provide concrete quantitative and qualitative outcomes which prove that noise pollution can lead to health issues, as well as to negative social and economic effects. Examples of health issues produced by daily exposure to noise, especially in urban areas and close to major airports are sleep disturbance, community annoyance, cardiovascular disease, premature death and mental health problems.
Thus, it still remains and continues to be a real issue and a challenge for the new specialists to discover new solutions to the reduction noise pollution problem.
Summary of project results
For the strategy of the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest the project was of great importance as it helped us to bring together a diverse group of staff and students to create and communicate new ideas and solutions. The aim of the mobility project between POLITEHNICA and UoI was the desire to create a new generation of specialists with more expertise in two fields of wide interest worldwide (the acoustic field of noise pollution and the field of alternative energy sources from biofuels) but also to provide students with a new educational and cultural experience
This project has been an excellent platform to put together the experience of collaborative work in the academic field between different teaching strategies established between the donor state Iceland and the beneficiary state Romania, between different points of view in approaching the same subjects.In addition, between the teachers from both universities there was a continuous transfer of knowledge and improvement of their professional skills, in the three mobilities (two in Iceland and one in Romania), in accordance with the new and modern teaching courses and laboratories in hybrid or virtual system that could replace the physically ones.
Students from both partner countries were encouraged to participate in joint study programs but unfortunately only Romanian students were willing to participate in the mobility program.
This project has been an excellent platform to put together the experience of collaborative work in the academic field between different teaching strategies established between the donor state Iceland and the beneficiary state Romania, between different points of view in approaching the same subjects.In addition, between the teachers from both universities there was a continuous transfer of knowledge and improvement of their professional skills, in the three mobilities (two in Iceland and one in Romania), in accordance with the new and modern teaching courses and laboratories in hybrid or virtual system that could replace the physically ones.
For the students these mobilities were a very interesting experience. They observed the research policies of another university. They interacted with students from other countries and exchanged knowledge. Besides the technical benefits, they can also mention the new cultural experience. The students improved their technical skills and their knowledge of English. They learned how to do research on their own, being coordinated both by Icelandic teachers, through face-to-face meetings, and by Romanians, through Skype meetings.
The teachers were also encouraged to carry out mobilities, so through these meetings we were able to improve international cooperation and knowledge exchange in the field of mechanical engineering, by sharing new information on new technologies and starting collaboration in the field of wind turbines or noise reduction.
These mobilities had a major impact on the participants because they were able to see how a country with such a small population has such a well-developed educational system, especially on the experimental side through laboratories and research centers. They were impressed by the open way of presenting the courses and seminars, as well as the desire to meet the needs of students to explore different areas of interest.
Cultural Exchange: The exchanges facilitated cultural understanding and appreciation between Romania and Iceland. Participants immersed themselves in each other''s cultural landscapes, fostering empathy, tolerance, and global awareness.
Capacity Building: By sharing best practices and collaborating on research initiatives, both countries strengthened their institutional capacities. This collaboration lays the groundwork for future joint ventures in academic research, innovation, and technology development.
Sustainable Development: Learning about Iceland''s sustainable energy practices, particularly in geothermal and wind energy, inspired participants to consider more sustainable solutions in their respective fields. This knowledge exchange could potentially influence environmental policies and practices back home.
Networking and Collaboration: The exchanges created a network of professionals, researchers, and educators across borders. This network facilitates ongoing collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the potential for joint projects that could have far-reaching impacts in academia and industry.
Number of ECTS credits received ed by the students in the mobility projects - 26
Share of staff who declare improved skills/ competencies in their field- 16
Summary of bilateral results
Having a donor partner was very important because the univ was able to increase cooperation between the entities. During the mobilities, they shared their experience and knowledge with the participants Enhanced Knowledge and Skills:Students gained expertise in developing experimental apparatus for researching thermal entropy and stress in steel using acoustic emissions, Python programming, audio engineering, implementing numerical methods, and project coordination.Successful Teacher Exchanges: The successful exchange of Romanian teachers to Iceland has led to a reciprocal opportunity, with four Icelandic staff members scheduled to visit Romania, fostering potential collaborations in acoustics and emerging technologies.Improved International Cooperation: Three teaching staff mobilities improved international cooperation and knowledge exchange in mechanical engineering, facilitating collaboration in noise reduction, numerical simulations, and alternative bio-fuels research.Workshop and Training: A workshop titled "Acoustic Wave: From Deduction to Solving" held in Iceland, provided Romanian teachers and students with advanced knowledge in deriving and solving the acoustic wave equation both analytically and numerically.Student Mobility Achievements: Romanian students enhanced their engineering profiles and practical skills, particularly in mechanical design and research tasks, preparing them for careers in research laboratories. They engaged in experiment design, project tracking, and contributing to research publications.