Discovering German Heritage in Lithuania: A Journey of Language, Culture, and Connection
Students and academic staff from Vilnius University’s (VU) Department of German Philology recently embarked on a remarkable journey to Western Lithuania, uncovering traces of German cultural heritage deeply rooted in the region’s history. Organised as part of the compulsory course Germans and Lithuania: Linguistic and Cultural Junctures, the trip aimed to deepen students’ understanding of the linguistic and cultural connections between Germany and Lithuania while fostering academic and intercultural skills.
The study trip was a collaborative experience that brought together students of the German Philology programme and participants from the English and Another Foreign Language (German) study programme.
Exploring Klaipėda’s German Connections
The journey began in Klaipėda, historically known as Memel, where students met with members of the vibrant German diaspora. These meetings provided valuable insights into the community’s rich history, cultural traditions, and major celebrations such as St Nicholas Day and Advent festivities. Such interactions allowed participants to explore how German culture has influenced the region and continue to shape its identity.
The opportunity to engage with diaspora representatives brought course content to life, enabling students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world experiences. These enriching discussions inspired participants to reflect on how linguistic and cultural traditions evolve in multicultural settings.
Uncovering the Legacy of the Curonian Spit
The next part of the journey took participants to the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where they explored its natural beauty and cultural significance. A highlight of the visit was the Thomas Mann House in Nida, where students learned about the writer’s life, work, and connections to Lithuania.
During a guided tour of the Curonian Spit National Park, students discovered the unique flora and fauna of the region and reflected on the interconnectedness of nature and culture. The trip fostered a sense of camaraderie among participants, with team-building activities providing an opportunity to forge lasting friendships and intercultural bonds.
Enhancing Academic and Intercultural Connections
The trip was a multifaceted experience that combined academic exploration with personal and cultural growth. For students of German Philology, it offered a rare opportunity to deepen their linguistic competencies and cultural understanding in authentic settings beyond the classroom.
“Experiences like this allow students to truly immerse themselves in their studies,” shared one of the lecturers. “They gain a new appreciation for the subject by engaging with it directly in the real world, which greatly enriches their learning process.”
The involvement of Ukrainian students added a unique dimension to the experience, fostering an inclusive and dynamic exchange of perspectives that further broadened the learning environment.
A Model for Experiential Learning
The Department of German Philology views such study trips as integral to the educational journey, reinforcing its commitment to providing students with hands-on experiences that expand their academic boundaries and cultural horizons. These initiatives underscore the department’s mission to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate intercultural settings confidently.
This transformative experience was made possible through support from the Fund for Teaching and Learning Internationalisation Initiatives, the German-Baltic Future Foundation (DBJW), and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). Such collaborations reflect a shared dedication to fostering international academic connections and enriching student learning.
For students of German Philology at Vilnius University, opportunities like these demonstrate the programme’s dedication to combining rigorous academic study with meaningful, real-world engagement in the field of German language and culture.
27 Nov 2024