Jakich zmian w polskich uczelniach doświadczają mistrzowie dydaktyki?

Abstract

In 2023, the “Masters of Didactics” program was completed. Its goal was to improve the quality of academic didactics in Poland by training academics at renowned European universities. The program, which included tutoring and modern educational methods based on international experience and practice, has influenced the development of many academic teachers, but its sustainability and further implementation of innovative approaches are still a challenge.

The VIVA DIDACTICA 2024 conference included “networking” sessions of the alumni of the Masters of Didactics Program and representatives of the Centers for Didactic Excellence from all over Poland. The article holds the results of the discussions that took place during these sessions. The participants addressed the topic of changes in the approach to academic teaching in Poland, the impact of the “Masters of Didactics” on university environments, and the role of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education in further support towards the professionalization of academic teaching.

Participants pointed out the need for systemic implementation of tutoring as an equivalent form of teaching, stressed the importance of changing the organizational culture of universities, and the need to support teaching professionals through training, mentoring, and networking. They made demands for a national system of mini grants to exchange teaching experience and integrate the academic community around innovative teaching methods.

Additionally considered was the establishment of a Foundation of Alumni of the “Masters of Didactics” Program, whose task would be to support academic teachers, promote good practices, and cooperate with the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. The article emphasizes the importance of professionalization of academic education and systemic changes in Polish universities, pointing to the need for further development and integration of the academic community around didactics, which is the essential pillar of developing science.