From people to change – (r)evolutions in teaching in small steps – how empathy and cooperation create a space in which the university learns about itself anew

Abstrakt

The interview with Professor Ewa Szymczak, Vice–Rector for Education at the University of Gdańsk and co–founder of The University of Gdansk Center for the Development of Teaching and Tutoring, explores the evolutionary transformation of academic teaching. Drawing on her experience as a teacher, researcher, and educational leader, she discusses how empathy, sensitivity, and collaboration can shape spaces of collective learning within the university. This transformation unfolds both institutionally and personally – through small, consistent steps, networks of relationships, and grassroots initiatives. The interview reflects on how centres of teaching excellence and academic communities can renew universities from within.