Summer School for Sustainability

Faculty of Science

Schedule, Course Syllabus and Literature List 

About the course

Biodiversity in Western Sweden will give a general introduction to biodiversity, its patterns and processes, and the reasons for its decline in recent history.

This will include:

• how biodiversity is defined at different levels (molecular, species, ecosystem)
• an introduction to common West Coast species
• how biodiversity is coupled to our everyday lives (ecosystem services/ natures contributions to people)
• an introduction to living and  preserved collections and their value in research and society
   

It will further explore the threats to biodiversity, and how we understand these threats through eg. red listing and IUCN assessments.

The course will be given in connection with Gothenburg Global Biodiversity Centre partners, and focus on both theoretical and practical work around both in situ and ex situ conservation efforts with examples from their organisations. And: there will be field trips!

The course is linked to Global Goal number:

• 14 (Life below water)
• 15 (Life on land)

Faculty of IT 

Schedule, Course Syllabus and Literature List 

About the course

The purpose of this course is to prepare students as self-aware, responsible agents of change in the world, such that you are able to apply critical thinking and a long-term systemic perspective to the plethora of development opportunities provided by digitization.

We discuss sustainability and sustainable development concepts in class and relate them to climate change, world economics, systems thinking, and technological development. This builds the foundation for critically assessing the potential and risks of digitization in a changing world - i.e. when new ideas come around, you will be able to judge them well. To make this very applicable in your future, we also conceptualize and develop prototypical IT systems that support sustainable development.

The emphasis is more on personal wellbeing and how that ties in with sustainability and current societal lifestyle than on the design and implementation of IT services.

The course is carried out via:

• Development of and reflection on a personal sustainability practice and what it means to live in a sustainable community. That means we try practices like yoga, meditation, walks in nature and reflect on the effects - yup, we have a well-qualified professor for that in IT, see below; 
• Flipped classroom for introducing concepts. You will be watching a short documentary or reading a research article as preparation and then we discuss them in class and reflect on how to use these concepts in our work.
• A team project will be carried out in small teams over the extent of the course to apply all the new concepts (so you are comfortable at integrating your new sustainability knowledge into technology development), including requirements engineering and design. You can optionally work on prototyping an IT service or product to explore sustainable development.

Teacher

The course responsible and main teacher is Associate Professor Birgit Penzenstadler, who has been researching the connection between technology and sustainability for a decade, and for the last three years integrated her yoga teacher practice into research to increase the wellbeing and resilience of developers and engineers.

There may be further guest teachers 6-8 hr facetime per week.

This course is linked to Global Goals:

• 3 (health & wellbeing)
• 9 (innovation)
• 11 (sustainable communities) 

Faculty of Social Sciences: School of Public Administration

Schedule, Course Syllabus and Literature List 

About the course

The challenges associated with migration and integration remain some of the most pressing facing European societies. The ongoing full-scale war in Ukraine has now resulted in the displacement of nearly fifteen million people. The legacy of the 2015 refugee “crisis” is still sharply visible in public discussions over how immigrant integration ought to be achieved, and continued concerns over the need for both skilled and unskilled labor from outside the European Union shape both policy and debates.

Against this backdrop, the course provides students with an introduction to key cases of both migration and integration in Europe and details how the associated challenges and possibilities are problematized by migration scholars.

In addition to seminars with migration scholars from the University of Gothenburg, course sessions will include presentations, discussions and workshops with a diverse group of international public servants, civil society staff, artists and researchers.

The course is broadly interdisciplinary, and students will have the opportunity to explore how arts-based methods can inform their understanding of social science scholarship focusing on migration and integration.

The course meets for 6-8 hours per week and concludes with a course conference in which students present one part of their final exam project.

Instructor

The course supervisor and main instructor is Gregg Bucken-Knapp, Professor in the School of Public Administration at the University of Gothenburg. 

This course is linked to Global Goal number:

• 8.8 (Protect labour rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers, including migrant workers, in particular women migrants, and those in precarious employment)
• 10.7 (Facilitate orderly, safe, regular and responsible migration and mobility of people, including through the implementation of planned and well-managed migration policies.)
• 11 (Sustainable cities and communities)
• 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions)

LIR103 Faculty of Humanities

Schedule, Course Syllabus and Literature List 

The pursuit of sustainability is both motivated and guided by concern for justice. On one side, the pursuit of global sustainability is motivated by the recognition that it is unjust to live in a way that deprives others of the chance to flourish. On the other side, the pursuit is guided by our answers to fundamental questions of justice. What opportunities for flourishing does justice demand that we leave for others? What burdens does justice permit us to impose on ourselves in order to preserve these opportunities?

This course will ask how conceptions of justice developed in different literary, philosophical and religious traditions might help to motivate and guide our pursuit of sustainability. The course will have two points of concentration.

As a first matter, it will examine contemporary conceptions of justice, and ask how far they are suited to cultivating sustainability. What do our dominant understandings of justice assume about humanity and the non-human world? Do these assumptions help or hinder the pursuit of sustainability?

As a second matter, the course will examine how contemporary conceptions of justice might be enriched through wider literary, philosophical and religious depictions. The course will probe the assumptions that inform the wide-ranging accounts of justice that appear in differing texts and traditions, with particular attention paid to assumptions that create space for ideas like generosity and self-sacrifice to appear as part of a picture of justice.

This course is linked to Global Goals:

All seventeen global goals associated with Agenda 2030 are in some way connected to a conception of justice. The topics covered in this course have a particular connection with goals 1-4 (the elimination of poverty and hunger; the provision of health and education for all); goals 5 and 10 (the promotion of gender equality and reduction of inequality); and goal 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions).

PDG459, Faculty of Education

Schedule, Course Syllabus and Literature List

The course addresses how aspects of sustainable development can be taught in formal and informal educational settings to encourage greater awareness of sustainability issues.

Multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives on the complex concept of sustainable development will be discussed from an educational perspective, in which teaching and learning will be problematised and informed by educational research from different perspectives. The course aims to increase student's ability to reflect on and centrally position, both as individuals and in subject groups, issues of sustainable development across all forms of education.

The course is oriented around three thematic strands:

• Human activities and their impact on society and the environment
• Social participation and the politics of engagement
• Personal and curriculum values in relation to life on earth

The experiences and cultural backgrounds of the participants will be an integral part of all three strands.

This course is linked to Global Goals number:

• 4 (Quality education)
• 3 (Good health and well-being)
• 10 (Reduced inequalities)
• 12 (Responsible consumption and production)
• 13 (Climate action)

The University of Gothenburg is responsible for your study environment. We want you to feel safe and welcome when you are in our study environments and when you meet other students and staff at the University.

Everyone at the University, both staff and students, has a responsibility to treat each other with respect and contribute to a safe and sustainable study environment.

For more information, kindly click here.

If you need support regarding your health and wellbeing, you can contact Student healthcare at the University. There are also resources that you can use on your own.

Find more information, please check here.

A suspected disciplinary offence, for example cheating, can lead to a disciplinary matter. Learn more about the process leading up to a possible disciplinary measure and what kind of support you can get.

1/7 - Paddan sightseeing  

When? 1 July, 5pm
Where? Walk together from Pedagogen B, or meet at 5.30pm at Paddan, Kungsportsplatsen 

After an intense first day of classes, we invite you to sit back and relax as we show you around this beautiful city. Paddan is a sightseeing by boat, which will be taking us through the canals of the inner city. We will have our very own tour guide guides us around the sights and telling a few Gothenburg-related puns along the way.
Sign-up will close at 16.00 on Friday, June 28.   

Sign up link: https://forms.office.com/e/YnfEjQGjt7 

3/7 - Site visit: Textile Fashion Center 
When? 3 July, bus pick-up at 8.30am on Utlandagatan 24 - back around 3.30pm
Sign up no later than 12o'clock on July 2 

Join us for a study visit to Sweden's capital of textile, Borås, and its Textile Fashion Centre!
Ever heard of clothes measuring your pulse? Or socks that analyse your running stride? The small town of Borås does not only carry a long history of textile and design, it is also where the future of Swedish fashion is shaped.
REuse before REcycle is the theme of our visit, which aims to give you insight into sustainable practices in the textile industry and to provide a platform for discussions with experts in the field. 

Fika will be offered, but you need to bring or buy your own lunch.

4/7 Company presentation: Västtrafik
When? 4 July, 3pm- 4.30pm
Where? Pedagogen, room BE036

Welcome to a presentation on Västtrafik's daily efforts to achieve sustainable public transport. In this session, Västtrafik's sustainability experts will introduce you to the company's challenges and accomplishments in planning and delivering public transport on equal terms. They will also cover our initiatives to reduce emissions in our vehicle fleet. Västtrafik encourages you to ask questions and share your perspectives throughout the presentation. 

^{_{Västtrafik is the agency responsible for public transport services (buses, ferries, trains, trams) in the county of Västra Götaland.}}

5/7 - Amazing Race 

When? 5 July, 4pm
Where? Outside Pedagogen B  

Amazing Race will take you on a journey around Gothenburg and help you explore the city. In teams of 5, you will get a list of iconic locations around the city. Your task is to dash around the city to visit as many of them as possible and collect points along the way. The event starts outside Pedagogen at 16:00. Sign-up will close at 16.00 the day before the event takes place.   

Sign up link: https://forms.office.com/e/eU0DP1xgVc 

8/7 Workshop at Botanical Gardens
When? 8 July, 3pm to 4.30pm
Where? Meet Helen at the entrance of the Botanical Gardens, Carl Skottsbergs gata 22A. Tram stop Botaniska Trädgården
Sign up here no later than 5pm on the day before 

Is species knowledge important? Welcome to the Botanical garden to take a closer look at plants and discuss biodiversity. Using magnifying glasses, keys and flora we will learn to identify a few common species and see how they are adapted to the environment.  Have you heard of plant blindness? Let´s talk about that too and also why learning to recognize and name plants may broaden your understanding about nature and may help build new connections with your environment.

Dress appropriately for the weather, you’ll be outdoors.

_{^{This is part of an Interreg EU project, EXPBIO and we would live your opinion on it. Find out more https://www.botaniska.se/barn-skola/projekt-expbio/}}

8/7 Gött häng 

When? 8 July, 4pm
Where? Slottsskogen, Linnéplatsen tramstop

Let us introduce you to a quintessential Gothenburg experience: the Gött häng! Loosely translated into “a chill hangout”, the Gött häng is a very dear practice to people of all walks of life here in the city. It usually entails a location to hang out, we’ve opted for Slottsskogen (the perfect central park for a hangout), some sort of activity, again we’ve gone for some classic KUBB, and some sort of music, Hanna is a true playlist wizard and have put together a jam with all the perfect Gött Häng bangers.  

9/7 Talk and Draw: A Conversation about Messages from Ukraine
When? 9 July, 12pm-1pm. Bring your own lunch.
Where?  Pedagogen , room BE036

Messages from Ukraine is a short graphic novel that takes place in the first weeks of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Based on text messages from young Ukrainians professionals, the book explores their experiences in graphic form:  those who fled home and sought safety elsewhere, those who chose to stay and volunteer or fight, those who witnessed events unfolding from afar, and those who found themselves trapped in cities under siege. 

During this talk and draw session, Professor Gregg Bucken-Knapp (School of Public Administration, University of Gothenburg) will talk about the making of the book, the people that it focuses on, and comics as a form of arts-based research. Questions from the audience will guide the conversation.  Joonas Sildre (Estonian comic artist) will do live drawings of themes central to the book during the conversation.

9/7 Workshop at Botanical Gardens
When? 9 July, 3pm to 4.30pm
Where? Meet Helen at the entrance of the Botanical Gardens, Carl Skottsbergs gata 22A. Tram stop Botaniska Trädgården
Sign up here no later than 5pm on the day before

Is species knowledge important? Welcome to the Botanical garden to take a closer look at plants and discuss biodiversity. Using magnifying glasses, keys and flora we will learn to identify a few common species and see how they are adapted to the environment.  Have you heard of plant blindness? Let´s talk about that too and also why learning to recognize and name plants may broaden your understanding about nature and may help build new connections with your environment.

Dress appropriately for the weather, you’ll be outdoors.

_{^{This is part of an Interreg EU project, EXPBIO and we would live your opinion on it. Find out more https://www.botaniska.se/barn-skola/projekt-expbio/}}

9/7 Sustainability film festival  
When? 9 July, 5.30pm
Where? Studenternas Hus, Götabergsgatan 17  

Come enjoy a night of thought-provoking movies. A new movie each Tuesday, all highlighting a different aspect to sustainability. There will be snacks! 
This week's movie is Make Democracy Great Again, a gripping political thriller that explores the turbulent efforts of a diverse group of activists striving to restore democratic principles in a nation sliding into authoritarianism.

10/7 Marstrand Excursion
When? 10 July, 9am
Where? Bus pick-up on Utlandagatan 24

We will be travelling to the archipelago and the beautiful island of Marstrand, Sweden's sailing capital, over two separate Wednesdays.
A haven for sailing and swimming, with quaint neighbourhoods and car free streets. We will have a guided tour of the old fortress and there will be plenty of time for exploration, swimming, and hiking around the island. 
Sing up here no later than 5pm on July 8.
 

12/7 Island adventure  
When? 12 July, 1.45pm
Where? Saltholmens brygga tramstop

Join us for an exploration of the Gothenburg archipelago! We travel together from Saltholmen färjeläger out to Brännö, one of the many islands surrounding Gothenburg. At Brännö there are beautiful hiking trails, lovely cafés and tonnes and tonnes of history! We take the ferry back to the mainland around 18.00, but it’s your choice if you're ready to leave or want to stay on the island a little longer.   

Sign-up link: https://forms.office.com/e/WDq6K9sS8k 

15/7 SDG Impact Assessment Tool workshop
When? 15 July, 2pm-4pm
Where? Pedagogen, room B1 116 and lounge
Sign up here no later than 5pm the day before the workshop

Through group discussions and a case study on fare-free public transportation, the workshop aims to increase knowledge about the SDGs and their targets, and to promote a holistic understanding of sustainability, while helping you map the impact of sustainability initiatives.

16/7 SDG Impact Assessment Tool workshop
When? 16 July, 2pm-4pm
Where? Pedagogen, room B1 116 and lounge
Sign up here no later than 5pm the day before the workshop

Through group discussions and a case study on fare-free public transportation, the workshop aims to increase knowledge about the SDGs and their targets, and to promote a holistic understanding of sustainability, while helping you map the impact of sustainability initiatives.

16/7 Sustainability film festival  
When? 16 July, 5.30pm
Where? Studenternas Hus, Götabergsgatan 17  

Come enjoy a night of thought-provoking movies. A new movie each Tuesday, all highlighting a different aspect to sustainability. There will be snacks! 
This week's movie is After Work, a documentary that explores the evolving nature of work and the profound impact of automation and technological advancements on the future of employment and human identity.

17/7 Marstrand Excursion
When? 17 July, 9am
Where? Bus pick-up on Utlandagatan 24

We will be travelling to the archipelago and the beautiful island of Marstrand, Sweden's sailing capital, over two separate Wednesdays.
A haven for sailing and swimming, with quaint neighbourhoods and car free streets. We will have a guided tour of the old fortress and there will be plenty of time for exploration, swimming, and hiking around the island. 
Sing up here no later than 5pm on July 15.

18/7 Swedish Fika
When? 18 July, 12.30pm-1.30pm
Where? Lounge at Pedagogen  

When in Sweden you simply must have fika. Fika is a concept, a state of mind, an attitude and an important part of Swedish culture. It means making time for friends and colleagues to share a cup of coffee (or tea) and a little something to eat. Just bring your own kåsa (blue little reusable cup from the welcome ceremony) and we’ll sort everything else! 

18/7 SDG Impact Assessment Tool workshop
When? 18 July, 2pm-4pm
Where? Pedagogen, room B1 116 and lounge.
Sign up here no later than 5pm the day before the workshop

Through group discussions and a case study on fare-free public transportation, the workshop aims to increase knowledge about the SDGs and their targets, and to promote a holistic understanding of sustainability, while helping you map the impact of sustainability initiatives.

22/7 Guided excursion through Änggårdsbergen
When? 22 July 9am-11.30am or 12.30pm- 3pm
Where? Meet at the entrance of the Botanical Gardens, tram stop Botaniska Trädgården
Sign up here

Enjoy a guided excursion and find out about sustainable foraging of wild edible plants and the Swedish Allemansrätt. Together with Kennert, we will take a walk through the Änggårdsbergen hills, and will enjoy a tasting of wildberries, wild vegetables, and herbal teas.

Dress appropriately for the weather, you’ll be outdoors.
Sign-up will close at 3pm the day before the event takes place.

22/7 Hang out session
When? 22 July, 4pm
Where? Studenternas Hus and Himlabacken (just behind the building) 

On this lovely Monday afternoon, we invite you to a chilled evening. Hang out, play some games, chat with your friends and just take it easy. Nothing crazy happening today, just a good time with some good tunes.   

23/7 Guided excursion through Änggårdsbergen
When? 23 July 9am-11.30am or 12.30pm- 3pm
Where? Meet at the entrance of the Botanical Gardens, tram stop Botaniska Trädgården
Sign up here

Enjoy a guided excursion and find out about sustainable foraging of wild edible plants and the Swedish Allemansrätt. Together with Kennert, we will take a walk through the Änggårdsbergen hills, and will enjoy a tasting of wildberries, wild vegetables, and herbal teas.
Dress appropriately for the weather, you’ll be outdoors.
Sign-up will close at 3pm the day before the event takes place.

23/7 Sustainability film festival 
When? 23 July, 5.30pm
Where? Studenternas Hus, Götabergsgatan 17 

Come enjoy a night of thought-provoking movies. A new movie each Tuesday, all highlighting a different aspect to sustainability. There will be snacks!  This week’s movie is Historjá – Stygn för Sápmi, a powerful documentary that delves into the rich cultural heritage of the Sámi people, capturing their traditions, struggles, and the artistry of embroidery that tells their historical and contemporary stories.

24/7 At the Crossroads
When? 24 July, 12pm-2.30pm
Where? Studenternas Hus, Götabergsgatan 17 

At The Crossroads is a serious board game allowing players to experience the everyday life of Ukrainians forced to flee following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, becoming either internally displaced peoples or refugees abroad.

Take the chance to play the game and speak to researchers about the development of the game, the people involved and what serious games can achieve in terms of sharing knowledge and experiences.

25/7 Mini golf
When? 25 July, 5pm and 6pm
Where? Slottsskogens Äventyrsgolf 
Sign-up link: https://forms.office.com/e/Xj5sXK8fUC 

What are you doing on the afternoon of June 25th? I've got a putter idea! Its time to show us what you've got on the golf course! Join us for an afternoon of swinging fun at the Slottsskogen adventure mini golf! Playtime is an hour, with tee-off at either 17.00 or 18.00. We have a limited number of spaces available for each starting time so make sure to grab a spot while you can! Don't waste time puttering around! Sign-up closes at 15:00 the day before the event! 

Sign-up link: https://forms.office.com/e/Xj5sXK8fUC 

31/7 Final party 
When? 31 July, 6.30pm
Where? Studenternas Hus, Götabergsgatan 17 
Sign-up link: https://forms.office.com/e/QZhQus7dPn no later than July 17 @2pm

On the 31st of July we plan to go out with a BANG! It's the last week of Summerschool and we want to make the most of it. Welcome to a night of dinner and partying with your classmates. In Studenternas Hus we welcome you to a seated dinner, a "sittning" (traditional Swedish student party) where we will dance the night away! Sign-up closes on the 17th at 2pm and seats are limited, so make sure to sign up while you can! 

1/8 Delsjön excursion 
When? 1 August, from 1pm
Where? Delsjöbadet  

What’s better than a chilled out picknick on the day after a great party? Absolutely nothing, we say! Therefore, join us at Delsjön for an afternoon of relaxing, bathing and BBQing! We’ll organize the fire and some condiments; you bring whatever you want to cook on the fire.  We also recommend you bring some kind of refreshments and a towel or picknick blanket.*

*this event is subject to cancellation upon terrible weather.

2/8 Farewell Ceremony with Diplomas
When? 2 August, 10am-12pm
Where? Vasaparken, Universitetsplatsen 1

Join us at the main university building as we bid farewell to you and hand out diplomas. Don't miss this opportunity to reminisce with friends and mentors over Swedish fika! 

Keys You will receive three keys in a keybag. A small one to the mailbox, one key to the room door and a blue Aptus tag to the front door and public areas such as the kitchen. Keep in mind that there may be more kitchens in the stairwell. If you do not enter the first one, it is because you are assigned to the second kitchen. Return your keys in the same keybag.

Laundry Laundry time can be booked with an Aptus tag on the board outside the laundry room at Framgången 222. There is also another laundry room at Framgången 256 you can use.

Kitchen Communal kitchens at Olofshöjd are shared between four to eight people. Those who share the kitchens are equally responsible for the daily cleaning.

Garbage All kitchens have recycling bins. The bin for organic waste, which requires a paper bag. (You can find the paper bags in the garbage rooms). There are four locations where you can leave these bags, at Uppstigen 102 and Uppstigen 137, at Olofshöjdsgatan and in the courtyard between Motgången / Framgången. There are two recycling stations where can leave newspapers, glass, cardboard, batteries, plastic and metal. They are located at Olofshöjdsgatan (by the garage) and in the courtyard between Motgången / Framgången.

Internet You need a network cable to connect the internet outlet to your computer. Access to the internet is obtained by accepting an internet contract directly on your computer. Open any web browser and follow the instructions. If you want WIFI you need to buy a router yourself. If you need help, contact our Internet Support            tel: +46313336300. (Phone hours Monday-Friday 09:00 - 16:00) https://sgs.se/hyresg%C3%A4stinfo/internet/guider/hur-kommer-jag-ig%C3%A5ng?sc_lang=en.

Securitas Should a serious problem, such as a water pipe breaking etc or any disturbances occur nights and weekends, please call Securitas, +4631404290

 Fault report During the summer, only urgent fault reports are made as most of the property managers are on holiday. Error reports are reported by sending an email to studenthousing@gu.se

Mail /Package All mail is sent to YOUR address. Larger items will be handled by a local store, and they will notify you were to pick up. If a delivery company delivers your package, you need to provide them with your phone number so they can contact you. If you receive a letter that is not addressed to you then you should cross out the recipient’s name and address, write "Retur" on the envelope and drop it in the yellow PostNord post box.

Construction work Olofshöjd Renovation of colonnades will continue throughout the summer, weekdays 7am-6pm approx.

Keys You will receive two keys in a keybag. One key to the apartment door and a red Aptus tag to the entrance, mailbox and the laundry room. Return your keys in the same keybag.

Safety door The apartment door is a safety door, to lock it you need to lift the door handle UP first.

Laundry Laundry time can be booked with the red Aptus tag on the board outside the laundry room.

Garbage There are four locations where you can leave organic waste, which requires a paper bag. At Uppstigen 102 and Uppstigen 137, at Olofshöjdsgatan and in the courtyard between Motgången / Framgången. (You can find the paper bags in the garbage rooms)There are two recycling stations where can leave newspapers glass, cardboard, batteries, plastic and metal. They are located at Olofshöjdsgatan (by the garage) and in the courtyard between Motgången / Framgången.

Internet You need a network cable to connect the internet outlet to your computer. Access to the internet is obtained by accepting an internet contract directly on your computer. Open any web browser and follow the instructions. If you want WIFI you need to buy a router yourself. If you need help, contact our Internet Support            tel: +46313336300. (Phone hours Monday-Friday 09:00 - 16:00) https://sgs.se/hyresg%C3%A4stinfo/internet/guider/hur-kommer-jag-ig%C3%A5ng?sc_lang=en.

Securitas Should a serious problem, such as a water pipe breaking etc or any disturbances occur nights and weekends, please call Securitas, +4631404290

 Fault report During the summer, only urgent fault reports are made as most of the property managers are on holiday. Error reports are reported by sending an email to studenthousing@gu.se

Mail /Package All mail is sent to YOUR address. Larger items will be handled by a local store, and they will notify you were to pick up. If a delivery company delivers your package, you need to provide them with your phone number so they can contact you. If you receive a letter that is not addressed to you then you should cross out the recipient’s name and address, write "Retur" on the envelope and drop it in the yellow PostNord post box.

Smoke free housing Many people wish to live in a smoke-free environment for various reasons. To cater for the needs of these persons and to create good living conditions, smoking is prohibited in the property Tillgången.

Construction work Olofshöjd Renovation of colonnades will continue throughout the summer, weekdays 7am-6pm approx.

Keys You will receive one key in a key bag. The key is used to the apartment door and as an Aptus tag to the entrance, mailbox, recycling room and the laundry room. Return your keys in the same key bag.

Safety door The apartment door is a safety door, and closes automatically after a few seconds. But please make sure that the door closes behind you for the safety of the other tenants in the apartment.

Laundry Laundry time can be booked with the tag reader on the key on the board outside the laundry room.

Garbage You can dispose the food waste and the household waste in the garbage disposal area located outside the building, close to the parking area. You can find the paper bags for food waste in the recycling room which is the second door to the right from the main entrance door of the building. Here you can leave glass, cardboard, batteries, plastic, and metal.

Internet The router is placed in the common area/living area of the apartment, and you can scan the QR-code on the router to connect to internet.

Securitas Should a serious problem, such as a water pipe breaking etc or any disturbances occur nights and weekends, please call Akademiska hus +461055724 24.

Fault report Error reports are reported by sending an email to sprakskrapan@gu.se.

Mail /Package All mail is sent to YOUR address. Larger items will be handled by a local store, and they will notify you were to pick up. If a delivery company delivers your package, you need to provide them with your phone number so they can contact you. If you receive a letter that is not addressed to you then you should cross out the recipient’s name and address, write "Retur" on the envelope and drop it in the yellow PostNord post box.

Smoke free housing Many people wish to live in a smoke-free environment for various reasons. To cater for the needs of these persons and to create good living conditions, smoking is prohibited in and around (at least 10 metres from the property) Språkskrapan.

How does a typical week look like?
Our weekly schedule is designed to offer a balanced mix of learning and leisure. Mornings are dedicated to lectures, while most afternoons are reserved for self-study, group work, or engaging workshops and seminars, allowing you to deepen your understanding and collaborate with peers.
Wednesdays are flexible, offering opportunities for excursions or independent study.
On late afternoons and in the evenings during the week, Bea and Hanna plan lots of social events, for you to get to know each other and to experience Gothenburg in the best way. 
Weekends are completely free, perfect for exploring and enjoying your surroundings.

Do I have classes on Friday mornings?
Your schedule may vary depending on the course you are attending. Some of you will have classes on Fridays, some not. Please make sure to check your schedule on Canvas (choose your course on this page and you will find soon a link to Canvas).

How late and how early will classes start?
Your schedule may vary depending on the course you are attending, but classes will not start before 8.30am and will not finish after 5.30pm. Please make sure to check your schedule on Canvas (choose your course on this page and you will soon find a link to Canvas).

Is there an exam at the end of the course?
Yes, all courses will have examination and/or assessment. Some courses will also be graded based on attendance and participation in discussion groups and workshops. Please make sure to check with your course leader.

Where do I find my schedule?
All information on your course, including schedule, can be found on Canvas. Please click on your course on this page to find the link to Canvas.

How do I activate my student account?
The student account is your digital key to the university. You use your student account to log in to the Student Portal and access the learning platform Canvas, Ladok, Wifi, and much more. In order to use your student account, you must first activate it.
As an international student, you activate your student account by visiting Servicecenter. Our student ambassadors will help you with that. Remember to bring a valid ID such as a passport or driving licence. For more information please visit Studentportal.

Are any classes planned on Friday evenings?
No classes are planned on Friday evenings.

Are weekends free from activities and classes?
Yes, all weekends are free from classes and activities. You will have time to explore Gothenburg and its surroundings.

How do I access information on course literature?
All information on your course, including course literature, can be found on Canvas. Please click on your course on this page to find the link to Canvas. If you do not find the information, please contact your course leader.

Will courses be face to face or digital?
How your course will be taught may vary, but all courses will have a digital element. Some will offer a virtual week while others have blended virtual and physical components throughout the course. Please make sure to check with your course leader once in Gothenburg.

How do I get a letter of acceptance?
All exchange students from outside the EU have been sent a letter of acceptance. If you have not received yours or you need one, please e-mail summerschool@gu.se.

Where can I study when Pedagogen is closed and after 5pm?
When Pedagogen is closed you can study at the Economics Library, on Vasagatan 1. 
If the library is closed (check the website for opening hours), you can use your GU Card to access Studenternas Hus, at Götabergsgatan 17, a central meeting place for students at the University of Gothenburg. It offers various spaces for student activities, including rooms for gatherings, study spaces, and a stage for performances.

When does the summer school end?
The last day of the summer school is August 2. We will say goodbye during a Farewell Ceremony in the morning.

Can I switch course?
No, it is not possible to switch course.

Will I receive a diploma?
Yes, you will receive a diploma during our Farewell Ceremony.

What rights and responibilities do I have as GU student?
As a student at the University of Gothenburg, you have both rights and responsibilities. Your study environment must be free from discrimination and adapted to you and your situation. You also have access to support if you experience health issues related to your studies. There are rules that regulate topics such as fees, supervision, course evaluations and scheduling. For more information:
Study Environment and Rules
Rules for Studies and Examinations
Conduct rules and academmic writing 

Do I need a visa to enter Sweden?
Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality. You will find all relevant information on the Swedish Migration Agengy's website.

What can I do in Gothenburg on my downtime?
There are plenty of choices since Gothenburg and West Sweden are brimming with culture and entertainment in a natural environment with lakes, forests and a stunning archipelago at your doorstep.
You can visit the official tourism websites for Gothenburg and West Sweden as well as the sites This is Gothenburg and Det vilda Göteborg.

Will you show us the city or will we discover it on our own?
During the first week we will organise a campus tour and tell you a bit about the city. Moreover, some of the social activities will help you find your ways in Gothenburg. On Wednesdays we will organise excursions a little further away, and you will still have plenty of time to discover the city on your own.

How do I get a sim card?
You can buy a sim card at the closest corner shop. Feel free to ask our student ambassadors for guidance and directions.

Are there any specific apps I should download in sight of my stay in Gothenburg?
Move to Gothenburg and Gothenburg.com have handpicked a few apps that you might find useful.
Move to Gothenburg
Göteborg.com

What's the weather like in Gothenburg in July?
July is usually the hottest month in Gothenburg. However, the weather may vary during the day, from very hot to rainy and windy. Make sure to bring everything from your swim trunks to a wind and water proof jacket. 
Feel free to check the weather forecast on SMHI, the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute

Do we have to pay anything for field trips or excursions?
Field trips and excursions are free of charge, but you will have to purchase your own lunch and snacks. 

Are there any student discounts?
Yes, you are eligible for student discounts through Mecenat. You will receive an e-mail asking you to download the Mecenat app and to create an account. Please note that student discounts while travelling with local traffic requires you to have the correct symbol on your digital card in the Mecenat app, otherwise you risk a fine. Make sure to check in the app. During the first day of the summer school, you will get more information on Mecenat.

Where can I find sports equipment?
At Fritidsbanken, you can borrow equipment for leisure activities for free. Fritidsbanken is like a library for sports and leisure items. Each lending period is 14 days and anyone can borrow for free!

Should I bring lots of cash?
Do not bring large amounts of cash as it can be difficult to pay with. The most common and accepted debit & credit card in Sweden is Visa or Mastercard. Please note that some restrictions may apply to American Express and Maestro cards. 

When should I pay my rent?
You are expected to pay your rent before your arrival. You will receive an e-mail with payment instructions from Welcome Service, including the due date.

Will everyone stay in the same student housing area?
Most students will be accommodated at our housing facilities in Olofshöjd, but there is an option to choose another housing area, Språkskrapan.

Do I need to bring quilt and pillow?
Quilt and pillow will be provided to all students and can be left in your room upon departure, unless you want to bring them home with you. Kindly remember that you can leave quilt, pillow and other items at Freeshop Olofshöjd.

Do I need to bring bed linen?
You can either bring bed linen from home or purchase at your arrival. There might be bed linen available at Studenternas Hus on June 27 or at Freeshop Olofshöjd.
Bedding and linen can be bought from several stores in the city centre, like Hemtex or Åhléns. These stores are located just minutes' walk from Pedagogen. If you’re up for a slightly longer trip, there is an IKEA warehouse located in the area of Kållered, or JYSK near Hjalmar Brantingsplatsen, reachable from Olofshöjd by tram and then bus. Check the exact route and buy tickets through the public transport app Västtrafik To Go, by searching for routes to the station: Kållered köpstad or Hjalmar Brantingsplatsen.
Measurements: Bed size: 90x200 cm Flat/fitted sheet: 150x260 cm Duvet cover: 150x200 cm Pillowcase 50x60 cm.

How large are the rooms?
The size of your room depends on your chosen housing option, please check the Summer School Housing options PDF guide on this page.

Am I allowed to have guests during my stay?
Yes, you are allowed to have guests for a short period during your stay.

What time do I have to check out?
We kindly ask you to check out no later than 12am on Monday, August 5.
You will be able to drop off your keys when leaving your room. More information is available in the moving out information document you will receive upon your arrival.

Is there a laundry?
Yes, the laundry is available for all guests, free of charge. You will need to purchase your own laundry detergent. 

Is the accommodation catered or self-catered?
The accommodation is self-catered.

What kind of plug do I need for Sweden, do I need an adapter?
Sweden uses 230V AC, 50 Hz. To connect the device, it also needs to fit the power socket. Sweden uses the "europlug", also known as Type C power-plug, although Type F works as well. You may need an adapter if your device uses another plug. If you need an adapter, we recommend purchasing one before you come to Sweden. You may also want to consider bringing a power strip. That way you can have several devices plugged in at the same time, without the need for individual adapters.

Do I share a bathroom?
Please check the Summer School Housing options PDF guide on this page.

Will the rooms be randomly allocated?
Yes. When you choose an housing option, you will be randomly allocated a room.

Is there wifi available in my room?
WiFi is available at Språkskrapan, kindly read the information specific for Språkskrapan. At Olofshöjd, Internet is provided in all rooms. You will need an Ethernet cable to connect to the internet (cable is not provided). If you want to use WiFi, you need to bring a WiFi router or purchase one in Gothenburg.

Are there any bursaries to cover the accommodation costs?
University of Gothenburg does not offer any bursaries to summer school students.

Will the dorms be mixed gender?
Yes.

Do we live with exchange students or Swedish students or both?
Rooms are rented by both Swedish and international students, so you may meet both Swedes and non-Swedes, depending on their summer plans.

Do you know if the provided bedding is allergy friendly?
The pillow and duvet we provide have been purchased for the purpose.