# Visit to Charles University, Prague

> A study trip report detailing a collaborative visit by Savonia University of Applied Sciences students to the Third Faculty of Medicine at Charles University in Prague.

## Overview
On May 1–5, 2022, students and faculty from Savonia University of Applied Sciences visited the Third Faculty of Medicine at Charles University in Prague. The visit was hosted by Assoc. prof. PhDr. Kamila Řasová, Ph.D., the guarantor of physiotherapy studies at the faculty.

## Course Integration
The study trip was part of the Savonia University of Applied Sciences course, "Learning and studying in an international environment." The process included:
*   A virtual meeting prior to the trip for introductions and practical arrangements.
*   Ongoing virtual meetings to discuss learning agreements, presentation preparation, and trip logistics.

## Program Highlights
The trip consisted of both an official academic program and a social program:

*   **Spa Hotel Savoy:** Prim. MUDr. Ladislav Špišák CSc lectured on "Physical therapy and balneotherapy," followed by a tour of the spa's rehabilitation department.
*   **Karlovy Vary:** The group explored local spa culture.
*   **Faculty of Physical Education and Sport (Charles University):** Students visited the laboratory for the examination of the movement system and attended a lecture on "Muscle imbalances" by Assoc. prof. PhDr. Kamila Řasová.
*   **Joint Seminar:** A collaborative seminar featured students from Finland, the Czech Republic, and Italy. Finnish students presented on the "Autism Foundation – Atala group home" and the "Day activity center, Kaveritupa." The group also presented an overview of Savonia and its bachelor’s and master’s level rehabilitation education.
*   **Thomayer Hospital:** A lecture was delivered regarding "Rehabilitation among older people in Finland" for local specialists.

## Future Cooperation
The visit served to strengthen institutional ties and negotiate future collaboration, including:
*   Continued student and teacher exchanges.
*   Development of a BIP (Blended Intensive Programme) course focused on Neurological Rehabilitation, involving partners from Finland, the Czech Republic, and Italy.
*   Expansion of research collaboration.

## Authors
*   **Marja Äijö, PhD:** Principal lecturer, gerontology and rehabilitation, Savonia University of Applied Science
*   **Kamila Řasová:** Assoc. prof., Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University