Open Student Science in Times of Uncertainty

On May 12, within the framework of the Science Festival at Berdyansk State Pedagogical University, a traditional section meeting for students of Specialty 231 “Social Work” / I10 Social Work and Counselling entitled “Current Issues of Social Work and Social Pedagogy” was held. The academic staff of the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education together with students honour scientific traditions, contribute to the achievements of national and global science, and support the development of the student research community.

The theme of this year’s meeting – “Open Student Science in Times of Uncertainty” – sounds especially relevant, as it reflects the realities in which Ukrainian society lives and studies today. War, social changes, constant challenges, and transformations create new demands for science, education, and the professional training of future specialists.

Open student science is science without barriers between disciplines, countries, theory, and practice. It is an opportunity to become part of the global scientific dialogue while simultaneously developing one’s own research experience through first scientific inquiries, discoveries, and professional discussions. It is about the courage to ask questions, think critically, search for new meanings, share ideas, and work collaboratively.

For the field of Social Work, this topic has particular significance. A social worker is not only a practitioner, but also a specialist capable of analysing social processes, identifying the needs of different population groups, assessing the effectiveness of support, and seeking new approaches to solving social problems. Student research in this field becomes a space for generating ideas and solutions aimed at supporting vulnerable groups, strengthening social cohesion, and contributing to social recovery.

Each year, the topics of student research evolve in response to current social challenges. This demonstrates an understanding of social work as an important contribution to the future of the country. This year’s studies addressed behavioural strategies of wives and partners of military personnel in situations of anxiety, loss, and uncertainty; tools of psychosocial support for people in crisis situations and forced migration; legislative support for social work with military personnel and their families; support for the adaptation of children with disabilities; and adapted support programmes for recipients of social services.

Summarising the work of the section meeting, it is important to highlight the high relevance and professional orientation of the student research projects. Presentations delivered by bachelor’s and master’s students – V. Kostiukova, O. Karlina, O. Domova, O. Pavlenko, H. Voitenko, M. Panfilova, V. Zaiats, and Yu. Sarkisian – were meaningful, scientifically grounded, and highly relevant to contemporary social work practice.

A particularly pleasant part of the event was the awarding ceremony for the participants of the section meeting.

For participation in the Erasmus+ academic mobility programme “Breaking the Bubble,” active engagement in student research, and a presentation entitled “Structural and Functional Model of an Inclusive Extracurricular Centre as an Open Social and Educational System,” third-year bachelor’s student Vladyslava Zaiats was awarded a certificate of recognition from the Rector of BSPU.

According to the results of the participants’ voting, the best presentation award was given to the topic “Adapted Programme of Social and Psychological Support for the Development of Parenting Competencies in Internally Displaced Families” presented by master’s student Yuliia Sarkisian, who received a certificate of recognition from the Faculty of Preschool, Special and Social Education.

All participants of the section meeting received certificates of appreciation from the Dean of the Faculty of Preschool, Special and Social Education.

We sincerely thank the academic supervisors and mentors for their support, motivation, and assistance in preparing students for participation in the scientific event.

The section meeting was held in a professional, friendly, and positive atmosphere.

We are grateful to our defenders who protect Ukraine and give us the opportunity to study, conduct research, and contribute to bringing victory closer through our work.

We honour, preserve, and continue our traditions and achievements!

Based on materials provided by the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education