Özyeğin University Launches “Classes Beyond the Classroom” Project
As a strong testament to its unwavering commitment to student transformation and excellence in education and university experience, Özyeğin University launched the “Classes Beyond the Classroom” project. Extending learning beyond the campus, the project takes OzU students on a historical and spatial learning journey to experience Türkiye’s rich cultural heritage firsthand and gain a deeper understanding.
A New Perspective on Education
The “Classes Beyond the Classroom” project moves beyond conventional classroom-based education by sharing academic knowledge with students in real-world settings. As a powerful example of experiential learning, the initiative reflects Özyeğin University’s student-centered and innovative approach to education. By connecting academic content with everyday life, the “Classes Beyond the Classroom” project enables students to develop a stronger understanding of the relationship between history, culture, and place.
A Living Republic Route for OzU Students
The inaugural Classes Beyond Classrooms course, held in November 2025, was titled “Our Route: The Republic.” Beginning at Dolmabahçe Palace and continuing through Taksim Square, İstiklal Street, and Galata Tower, this memorable journey offered students a vivid exploration of the Republic’s history. Led by Asst. Prof. Mustafa Batman from the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences at Özyeğin University, this special experience immersed students in the historical transformation, stories, and spirit of the city.
The Second Stop: The Cappadocia Route
The project’s second journey took place in December 2025 in the world-renowned region of Cappadocia, Nevşehir. From the Göreme Open Air Museum to Paşabağları, and Zelve to Pigeon Valley, Özyegin University students explored the layered landscape of Cappadocia, where history, culture, and nature intertwine, through a multidimensional and immersive learning experience.
As part of the program, Asst. Prof. Melis Taner and Asst. Prof. Zehra Tonbul from the Faculty of Architecture and Design led in-depth discussions on iconography, the representation of sacred imagery, the architecture of place, and the relationship between space and culture. Uğurhan Şaşmaz, General Manager of Dinler Hotel, and the Guest Relations team of Argos in Cappadocia also joined the program, offering valuable insights into Cappadocia’s tourism ecosystem, sustainability practices, and the region’s strategic significance.
Projenin İkinci Durağı Kapadokya Rotası Oldu
Aralık 2025’teki ikinci proje durağı ise Nevşehir’in dünyaca ünlü Kapadokya bölgesi idi. Göreme Açık Hava Müzesinden Paşabağları’na, Zelve’den Güvercinlik Vadisi’ne uzanan bu özel yolculukta Özyeğin Üniversitesi öğrencileri; tarihin, kültürün ve doğanın iç içe geçtiği Kapadokya coğrafyasını çok boyutlu bir öğrenme deneyimiyle keşfetti. Program kapsamında Mimarlık ve Tasarım Fakültesi’nden Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Melis Taner ve Dr. Öğr. Üyesi Zehra Tonbul; ikonografi, kutsal imgelerin temsil biçimleri, yerin mimarisi ve mekân-kültür ilişkisi üzerine derinlikli tartışmalar yürüttü. Dinler Hotel Genel Müdürü Uğurhan Şaşmaz ve Argos in Cappadocia Müşteri İlişkileri Bölümünden yetkililer de Kapadokya turizmini, sürdürülebilirlik yaklaşımını ve bölgenin stratejik önemi hakkında öğrencilerimize değerli bilgiler aktardı.
