European exchange schemes within a bachelor of engineering course at coventry university

This article describes the setting-up and operation of exchange schemes within a BEng Course in Engineering at Coventry University and educational institutions in France, Germany and Spain. The conditions necessary for establishing exchange programmes are discussed together with the philosophy used. Data is presented which shows the achievements of the schemes. A total of 946 exchange students have participated in the scheme since 1980, spending one year at the host institution. Student performance data shows that, on average, the French, German and Spanish exchange students perform similarly to the home UK students at Coventry University. However, some differences are highlighted, and the reasons for these differences are explored. The article concludes with discussing the impact of such schemes at both individual and institutional levels.