General MULTINA FAQ
The Practice Enterprise Network was established in 1993.Since 1997, the network has been operated by the non-profit association PEN Worldwide. The aim of the international network is to help education and training organisations in participating countries to deliver training in business and entrepreneurship skills through the unique Practice Enterprise methodology ‘learning-by-doing’.
Today, PEN Worldwide administers an international network of 7,000 Practice Enterprises (PEs) in schools, universities, vocational training institutions, companies and training centres in 40 countries around the world.
A Practice Enterprise (PE) is a trainee-run enterprise that runs like a real business silhouetting a real enterprise’s business procedures, products and services and resembles a real company in its form, organisation and function. The concept is also known as a Virtual Enterprise or other national language variation in some countries.
A Practice Enterprise that operates from more than one location (trainees in different locations) or operated fully online
A Multinational Practice Enterprise is one where trainees from more than one country work for the same PE as one business unit, separated across borders either by departments, posts, or commercial responsibilities.
This refers to the purposeful integration of international and intercultural dimensions into the formal and informal curriculum for trainees within domestic learning environments. It offers trainees global perspectives within their programme of study, whether or not they spend time abroad.
This MULTINA website is intended to all the stakeholders, trainers and trainees who are interested in participating in Multinational Practice Enterprises and other multinational activities and events.
The target group for the MULTINA activities & methodology are VET trainees & students. Another target group are trainees with disadvantages where MULTINA can help them overcome social, geographical or financial challenges.
As a Practice Enterprise trainee, you can participate in different kinds of international events. You can visit PEN Worldwide Events website to learn more about these.
According to the OECD, Global Competence is a multidimensional construct that requires a combination of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values successfully applied to global issues or intercultural situations. Developing global competence is a life-long process, but it is one that education can shape. Global competences are not “new skills” but they are now being applied in a global context.
What is the added value of multinational PE activities?
Acquiring transversal/cross-cutting skills provides trainees with a wide range of advantages, especially as they prepare to enter the real business world. These skills not only enhance employability but also enable trainees to navigate international job markets, seize new job prospects, and effectively handle everyday life situations. In a dynamic world characterized by constant change, possessing such skills equips trainees to excel in addressing and adapting to unforeseen challenges.
Vital competences for succeeding in a multinational work environment encompass language proficiency, effective communication skills, adept presentation abilities, willingness to learn, adaptability, digital literacy, and intercultural competence. These competences are essential for thriving in diverse global settings.
Practice Enterprise plays a pivotal role in facilitating the comprehensive acquisition of professional knowledge and skills, particularly in the fields of financial and business literacy. Moreover, it emphasizes leadership skills and entrepreneurial learning, positioning trainees to feel comfortable working in multinational corporations in the future.
Participating in multinational Practice Enterprise activities adds significant value by enabling trainees to acquire knowledge and skills in diverse, multicultural, and multilingual environments. Working alongside trainees from various nationalities and cultures enriches their learning experiences.
Make use of the tools offered in the International Trade Resources widget, especially the details on Export Documentation. This will assist you in comprehending what other nations anticipate from you when conducting commerce.
Given the rapid pace of change, it becomes crucial for successful entrepreneurs and managers to share their experiences, especially with individuals in the education sector. Continual learning, staying abreast of legislative and technological developments, and honing the mentioned competences (transversal skills) are imperative for both trainers and trainees.
Trainers play a pivotal role in guiding trainees to make informed decisions and comprehend different situations along with their corresponding solutions. Trainers also prepare trainees to effectively manage various stressful situations, even in cases where physical mobility might be limited due to economic, social, or geographical factors.