Science with Meaning: A Workshop for Young Researchers Held at BSPU

As part of the All-Ukrainian Science Festival, Berdyansk State Pedagogical University hosted the workshop “Science with Meaning: How Young Researchers Can Find Their Research Niche”, organized by the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education of the Faculty of Preschool, Special and Social Education.

The event took place on May 20 in the format of a Zoom conference and brought together students, young researchers, and everyone interested in discovering their own direction in academic work. The workshop was moderated by Kateryna Petrovska, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor, and Head of the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education.

During the workshop, participants discussed how to identify their own research niche, develop a relevant scientific perspective, and avoid repeating already existing ideas. Particular attention was paid to interdisciplinarity, scientific novelty, and the connection between personal motivation and the current challenges of modern society.

One of the highlights of the workshop was its interactive format. Participants joined the “Chat-Storm” activity, during which they simultaneously shared in the chat the issues and questions that concern them most in today’s world. This approach created an atmosphere of open academic dialogue and demonstrated the diversity of young people’s research interests.

Another engaging activity was the practical exercise “My Research Compass”, which encouraged participants to analyze their motivation, strengths, societal demands, and current research trends. Young researchers worked on formulating their own ideas and attempted to answer the key question of the workshop: “What exactly do I want to study and why is it important?”

Special interest was generated by the section devoted to interdisciplinary research. Participants explored examples of combining psychology, pedagogy, social work, digital technologies, and other fields in order to create innovative scientific approaches.

The event became not only a platform for professional discussion, but also a space for support, motivation, and inspiration for young researchers who are only beginning to shape their academic paths. As emphasized during the workshop, science begins with a question that truly matters.