The global transformation in education sets new values and trends. At the same time, Russia differs from its western and eastern counterparts, so simply copying solutions designed there isn’t the best option. Attention should be paid to global challenges as much as local educational standards and technologies that determine the quality and efficiency of higher education. How do we make education better? What should it look like in 21st century Russia?

The ITMO.OPEN project was created for those who not only wish to improve the Russian educational system, but also to achieve breakthroughs. The course on educational trends and technologies will take place at ITMO University on May 24-25.

“What can be better than spending two days in late May in St. Petersburg? Spending them in productive communication among colleagues, discussing the ways to improve Russian higher education, and exchanging experience, of course!” says Daria Kozlova, First Vice Rector of ITMO University. “We will talk about the quality of education, development of international activities, active learning and flipped classroom methods, and think about how to develop joint educational programs. We will also be happy to share our new ideas and experiences.”

Daria Kozlova
Daria Kozlova

Prospective participants

This course will be of interest to representatives of higher education institutions who care about the future of education in Russia: vice rectors, deans, and heads of departments and educational programs, as well as lecturers and teaching and learning specialists.

“Over the course of two days, the participants will not only learn about ITMO University’s experience but also meet each other and find out how other Russian universities overcome challenges,” says Kristina Ivanova, head of the Faculty Support Office. “I’m sure that by gathering together in person, we’ll be able to find inspiration to make changes at our institutions and realize what steps to take next.”

Kristina Ivanova
Kristina Ivanova

Planned activities

Leading experts from ITMO University will discuss key aspects of working with students and lecturers and creating a comfortable educational environment that includes IT solutions and spaces conducive to studying and teamwork.

“This event attracts attention not only amongst the academic community. ITMO University demonstrates how educational trends function in practice. There are digital services and modern modules implemented as part of the core educational subjects. Without a doubt, we will see fascinating and useful presentations by professional speakers,” says Ivan Zamoshchansky, head of the Center for the Development of Universal Competencies at Ural Federal University and prospective participant of the course.

The program covers both general and specialized sessions, as well as workshops. Each participant will be able to form their own learning path and visit events that are most useful for their professional growth.

ITMO University
ITMO University

“I have registered for this course because ITMO is more than one of the best IT universities in the world. It’s a place for systematic design of new educational practices, a place for active and thoughtful transformations and the search for original educational solutions, especially in the field I’m most interested in: universal competencies and soft skills,” says Yulia Osachenko, associate professor at Tomsk State University. “We work on the creation of a systematic training of these competencies and skills at Tomsk State University. We have a lot in common with our fellow colleagues from ITMO, primarily – our understanding of the value of such transformations. Today, it’s especially crucial to create a community of universities for experience exchange and implementation of joint projects.”

All participants are also invited to take part in Open Education – an ITMO University conference that will take place in St. Petersburg on May 21. Moreover, ITMO University will arrange guided tours of St. Petersburg – on May 22 and 23 – for those who plan to come to the city in advance.

Participation is free. Every participant will receive professional development certificates. You can learn more and register here until May 18.