Onsite Training at the University of Lappenranta, Finland

The fourth onsite training in the frame of the DeSIRe Project was held from June 3 to 6, 2025, at LUT University in Lappeenranta, Finland. Dedicated to the development and implementation of Soft Skills Modules and MOOCs, the training brought together participants from Armenian, Georgian, and EU partner institutions. The program focused on four key areas: Media and Digital Literacy, Prioritizing and Decision-Making, Emotional and Social Intelligence, and Creative Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills.

The training officially opened on June 3 with welcome addresses from Professor Jaana Sandström, Vice President of LUT University, and Associate Professor Lusik Vardanyan, DeSIRe Project Coordinator. The day began with a Photovoice workshop led by Junior Researcher Iulduz Khairullina from the IEM Department of LENS, where participants used photography and video-making techniques to create visual narratives centered on their personal and professional goals. Through this hands-on session, Photovoice was introduced not only as a tool for creativity but also as a powerful method of reflection and communication in learning environments. In the following session, Junior Researcher Anna Kruzenshtern guided participants in exploring the potential of generative AI to enhance creative thinking and expression, emphasizing its role in expanding the boundaries of human imagination. The afternoon concluded with a session on practical applications of AI in education highlighting how new technologies can support innovative teaching, personalized learning, and content creation. Together, the sessions illustrated the dynamic relationship between emotional expression, creativity, and digital advancement.

On June 4, the training sessions focused on the practical application of data analysis in course development and decision-making processes. Professor Leonid Chechurin, along with Junior Researchers Anna Kruzenshtern and Viktor Dodonov delivered a session on how data can be used to inform and improve educational and institutional strategies. This was followed by a hands-on workshop on course design, led by Project Researcher Katriin Vannik, during which participants began shaping their own course structures. Teams then presented drafts of their course concepts and received constructive feedback to refine their ideas. The day concluded with a campus tour guided by Junior Research Assistant Pietu Korkalainen, offering participants insight into the learning environment at the IEM Department of LENS.

The sessions on Emotional and Social Intelligence were held on June 5. The improvisational theatre workshop was delivered in two parts. In Part 1, Junior Researcher Iulduz Khairullina and Project Researcher Bahar Bahramian Dehkordi explored the theoretical foundations, origins, and key insights drawn from their teaching experience, focusing on tackling complex problems with emotional awareness. Part 2 provided a hands-on practice session led by Iulduz Khairullina. participants engaged with expert-led discussions and practical activities designed to deepen their understanding of emotional awareness, empathy, and effective communication. The day included interactive workshops where attendees practiced recognizing and managing emotions in themselves and others, fostering stronger teamwork and collaboration. Additionally, Dr. Liudmila Krivoruchka from NAUKMA, Ukraine, presented on the holistic approach to education, sharing practices from Liberal Arts and Liberal Arts and Science programs across Europe. The day also featured a Forest Lecture and bio trail walk conducted by Professor Leonid Chechurin and a cultural presentation on Finnish traditions by Junior Research Assistant Pietu Korkalainen, culminating with an authentic Finnish sauna experience at the LUT Rantasauna.

The final day, June 6, was dedicated to Creative Thinking and Problem-Solving. Led by Professor Chechurin, the session introduced participants to the TRIZ methodology—a systematic approach to finding innovative solutions to real-world problems. Through interactive discussions and hands-on exercises, the training emphasized the development of creative thinking as a practical and transferable skill. This was followed by a presentation by the System Engineering research group on the role of artificial intelligence in education, highlighting both its potential and the ethical considerations it entails. The training concluded with a group discussion reflecting on the week’s learning outcomes and outlining the next steps for integrating soft skills modules and MOOCs across the partner institutions.

This training represented a meaningful step in advancing the DeSIRe Project’s commitment to fostering skills-oriented, inclusive, and collaborative higher education. Through a thoughtfully designed program, effective facilitation, and a welcoming atmosphere, the LUT team created a space that was both intellectually stimulating and practically valuable. Participants left the training with expanded perspectives, concrete tools, and a shared commitment to the educational transformation we are all striving to build.