TreKker Model - Case study on TreKker Model’s impact on self-beliefs

TreKker is an intervention model designed for students which aims to develop the individual as an integrated whole. This model was created to be used as a framework for individual skills development in an academic environment. As a result of the implementation of the Bologna Process, Higher Education Institutions in Europe are required to be more focused on skills and competences than on traditional lectures centered on technical skills (European Commission, 2009a). This article presents an exploratory study with students from the Catholic University of Portugal, Biotechnology College. In 2009/ 2010 we experimented with combining degree courses. These courses would then both focus on the same skills development and share assessment techniques. In this framework, the TreKker model was used to support the development of lifelong learning, emotional intelligence and transferable skills. Early results following the intervention appear promising in terms of increases in students’ self-esteem, self-efficacy and self-confidence. The study had some limitations related to number of subjects and execution time and must be repeated in order to have more consistent results.