Scientific dialogue: a season of meetings with scholar-educators

On November 19, a spring session of the student research group “Socialization of Children and Youth in the Contemporary Sociocultural Space” took place (supervised by Associate Professor Natalia Zakharova). The group’s activities are traditionally based on considering students’ research interests, which encourages their active participation in shaping the themes of meetings.

In the 2025–2026 academic year, students initiated a new format — the series “Let’s Get Acquainted: Lecturer–Researcher”, aimed at gaining deeper insight into the academic potential of the department’s faculty through their personal and professional stories.

In the first semester, the series was opened by Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Professor of the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education, First Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at BSPU, Olha Hurenko. In her presentation, she outlined key stages of her professional development, shared her vision of contemporary socio-pedagogical challenges, emphasized the importance of multiculturalism, and presented her experience in academic research.

Her life position became an example of determination and intrinsic motivation for growth. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of openness to new experiences, persistence in achieving goals, maintaining core values, and continuous self-improvement.

During the spring meeting, Associate Professor Anastasiia Popova, PhD in Pedagogy, also joined the dialogue. She presented her academic journey in the form of a symbolic “route,” where each “station” reflected key stages of her personal and professional development — from childhood dreams and early ambitions to a conscious career choice, active student life, and entry into the academic community. Special attention was given to the period of study as a space for developing leadership skills, multitasking abilities, and research interests, as well as to the stage of academic formation related to the study of professional training of social workers.

Her story unfolded as a dynamic journey with meaningful stops that shape not only experience but also the character of a researcher. A key idea highlighted was that “coincidences” in both academic and life paths often turn out to be закономірними — but only for those who are ready to recognize and use them.

During the meeting, she also shared her personal vision — the idea that education should “wear brands,” becoming modern, prestigious, and recognizable, associated with success, style, and opportunity. She emphasized that nothing is impossible for those who truly want and act, as persistence, intrinsic motivation, and openness to opportunities ultimately transform dreams into real achievements.

The interactive component of the event was enhanced by the moderator, who introduced elements of gamification – clues and riddles that allowed participants to present the speaker in an engaging and informal way:

• In the classroom – a wise mentor,
• In science – a dedicated researcher,
• In communication – open and sincere,
• For students – a source of ideas and inspiration.

This format contributed to creating a trusting atmosphere, enhancing communication, and increasing students’ interest in research activities.

The idea of promoting science through the personal stories of lecturers received positive feedback from students. It opened up new ways to rethink the image of a lecturer-researcher and to see real trajectories of professional development.

The event confirmed its significance as an effective tool for engaging students in research activities, stimulating interest in актуальних socio-pedagogical issues, and shaping the professional identity of future specialists.

The further development of this series is seen as a platform for scientific dialogue, exchange of experience, and promotion of academic culture.

Based on materials from the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education