A working visit to the University of Aveiro has begun on November 13, 2023. 

The key aspects of the project and directions of its implementation are considered on the first day: the implementation stage, key milestones and expected results. It contributed to a deeper understanding of the project's goal and implementation strategy. 

Effective models of interaction and cooperation of partner universities were reflected, revealing key aspects of internal and external coordination within the framework of PROMENT. The participants got a clear idea of the strategic development vector of the project, which became the basis for a fruitful discussion and exchange of ideas among the entire audience. Meetings at ISCA-UA emphasized not only the importance of knowledge exchange, but also created an additional platform for further cooperation within the framework of the PROMENT project. 

On the second day at the University of Aveiro, the participants of the working visit had a rich program: 

1) ISCA-UA mentoring program: Active meetings with teachers and students to exchange knowledge and experience in the implementation of the mentoring program to support educational initiatives. 

2) Meeting with UA Teaching and Learning Center (NEA): Learning new tutoring skills and discussing advanced teaching approaches. The participants had important consultations and exchange of ideas with specialists of the center of learning and teaching. 

3) Presentation of the Ser+ concept and the UA Training Program: Study of innovative opportunities and mechanisms of involvement in UA mentoring programs to promote the development of educational initiatives.

On the third day, AI was explored in higher education. The participants discussed strategic challenges and opportunities related to the introduction of artificial intelligence into the pedagogical process. A Q&A session with Mairéad Pratschke, Deputy Director of eLearning and Teaching Innovation at the University of Manchester, provided an opportunity to delve deeper into the topic and put specific questions to the expert. The PROMENT project is not only an exchange of knowledge, but also an important step in improving the modern educational system with the help of advanced technologies and methods. 

An exciting fourth day of the visit took place in the office of international cooperation within the framework of the PROMENT project. The participants discussed mentoring schemes that contribute to the effective exchange of experience and the development of professional skills. Internationalization can create new opportunities for mentoring: higher education institutions expanding their activities abroad may need mentoring support to adapt to new conditions, understand the local context and communicate effectively with other cultures. Joint projects with partner universities from different countries – creation of international teams working on the same project with mentors from different countries. 

The final day of the visit to the University of Aveiro within the PROMENT project worked out with summing up the rich program. The participants have summarized the results of the training program. Specific forms of interaction between mentors and mentees were identified. Existing achievements and individual areas for further improvement were assessed, namely the assessment of relationships, the effectiveness of knowledge transfer and interaction within the framework of defined goals. The identification of specific excellences in the process of mentoring becomes the basis for the development of this important area.

Ready for new challenges!