University of Tartu Teaching Staff Visit University of Helsinki to Foster Collaboration and Explore Digital Education Innovations
Author: Anna Beitane
Between September 18-21, a delegation from the University of Tartu’s Johan Skytte Institute of Political Studies visited the University of Helsinki to engage in a mobility program aimed at deepening academic collaboration and sharing expertise in digital education and research support. The visit facilitated valuable exchanges between faculty members and provided insights into the University of Helsinki’s robust research infrastructure and cutting-edge digital education practices.
The visit featured a comprehensive agenda, beginning with a presentation by Dr. Sari Autio-Sarasmo, Vice-Director of the Aleksanteri Institute, who introduced the visiting staff to the institute’s research priorities and ongoing projects. This was followed by an engaging lecture from Eemil Mitikka, a doctoral researcher, on the complexities of authoritarian political participation in Russia and the former socialist bloc.
Throughout the program, the University of Tartu staff engaged in productive discussions with key figures in international affairs and digital education. Meetings with Anna Korhonen, Head of International Affairs, and Jaakko Kurhila, Chief Digital Officer, provided deep insights into Helsinki’s strategies for supporting research projects like Horizon, ERC, Erasmus+, and Nordplus. Joanna Veinio, a representative from the University’s Digital Education and Continuous Learning Services, shared innovative approaches to digital education, which highlighted the potential for MOOCs and AI integration in teaching.
The visit proved to be immensely beneficial for both institutions, with mutual learning experiences that have reinforced existing connections and opened doors to new collaborative possibilities. The delegation returned with fresh perspectives on digital education methodologies and strategies for research support, which they hope to adapt and implement within the University of Tartu. These newfound insights promise to enhance ongoing projects and potentially spark new initiatives in the realm of international academic collaboration.
