# Safe4Brave – Creating a comfortable yet challenging enough learning environment - Savonia AMK

> Pedagogical safe space in international set up, how to ignite the bravery among the students.

## Introduction
The safe4brave concept is an important approach for both teachers and students when creating a learning environment where everyone feels comfortable, respected, and encouraged to participate. At Savonia University of Applied Sciences, internationality plays a significant role, particularly in multidisciplinary programmes like MultiPro OneWelfare. In 2026, this programme includes 27 students from seven countries: Kosovo, Lithuania, France, Germany, Austria, Zambia, and Spain.

For the purpose of the Future Work Ability Project, this article explores how the safe4brave concept helps create an inclusive, supportive, and stimulating learning environment for international students.

## The Role of the Teacher in Pedagogical Safety
Teachers play a central role in initiating pedagogical safety, which is then co-created with students. While teaching styles vary, certain elements are essential:

*   **Structure:** Students need clear expectations to feel secure and confident.
*   **Contracting:** Defining rules together at the start of a course fosters respect and belonging.
*   **Hierarchy:** Teachers must navigate cultural differences regarding hierarchy while maintaining their role as guides.
*   **Teacher Wellbeing:** The teacher’s own mood and sense of safety directly influence the classroom atmosphere.

### Examples of Classroom Rules
*   **Punctuality:** Minimizing distractions from late arrivals.
*   **Respectful communication:** Active listening when others speak.
*   **Respect for online participants:** Managing noise and distractions for those joining via Zoom or Teams.
*   **Use of electronic devices:** Clear communication on the use of phones and laptops.

## Fostering Belonging and Integration
International students often face challenges in connecting to a new institution, culture, and language. To support integration:
*   **Social Activities:** Group events and shared experiences help build cohesion.
*   **Intentional Grouping:** Teachers can prevent exclusion by forming groups randomly or mixing students to encourage interaction beyond existing social circles.

## The BRAVE Concept
Bravery is defined as stepping outside one’s comfort zone to try new forms of learning. The acronym **BRAVE** represents the key principles for this process:

*   **B – Be empathetic:** Understand others' feelings and perspectives.
*   **R – Respect yourself and others:** Use respectful language and think before speaking.
*   **A – Ask questions:** Seek to understand and clarify uncertainties.
*   **V – Value mistakes:** View mistakes as natural opportunities for growth.
*   **E – Ease tensions:** Be aware of emotional responses and their underlying causes.

Creating a brave classroom involves equipping students with the tools to engage in discussions and contribute their unique perspectives, even when they feel they lack language ability or social confidence.

## Contributors and References
**MultiPro 2026 students:** Katharina Gstöttenbauer, Emily Gärtner, and Georg Fallmann
**Author:** Agnieszka Laherto, Savonia Iisalmi Campus International Coordinator, Wellbeing specialist in Future Work Ability Project

### References
*   Creating Safe and Brave Spaces: Fostering Psychological Safety In Schools | New Leaders Blog
*   BRAVE classroom practices | National Center for Science Education
*   Rosinski, P. (2003) Coaching Across Cultures. John Murray Business
*   Bion, W. R. (1961). Experiences in groups and other papers. Tavistock Publications.