«Step into Science» : A New-Format Project Launched in the Mugalzhar District
Building on the successful experience of last year, the «Step into Science» project has been relaunched this year on a larger scale and with updated content. The main goal of the project is to develop the research potential of school teachers and enhance their professional qualifications. The Mugalzhar District, which was among the first to support the initiative, was selected as the pilot site.
The project mainly involves teachers from both rural and urban schools in the district. As part of the updated format, a special hybrid training course will be organized for educators.
The theoretical component combines online and offline learning formats, while the practical stage is conducted at the university. During this stage, participants have the opportunity to develop their first research projects under the guidance of experienced academic researchers.
Before the launch of the project, a special study was conducted to identify the professional needs and development priorities of teachers. The results showed a strong interest in research activities among educators. Based on these findings, the updated project format was presented at Secondary School No. 3 in Kandyagash,where it received positive support from local teachers.
As part of a working visit to the district, Chair of the Board and Rector Laura Karabassova visited the region, participated in project meetings, and exchanged views with teachers.
A meeting was also held with the Association of Master’s Students, during which a memorandum of cooperation was signed. Most members of the association are graduates of the university. In this regard, the project aims to create opportunities for their continued professional growth and knowledge improvement. Providing methodological and professional support based on the principle of lifelong learning remains one of the key priorities.
Within the framework of the project, regional teachers were also given access to the university’s laboratory facilities, inclusive education classrooms, and library resources. This initiative is expected to contribute to the effective implementation of teachers’ research activities.
The pilot phase of the updated «Step into Science» project has officially started in the Mugalzhar District and marks an important step toward strengthening the scientific potential of educators in the region.