Susanna Muradyan, Deputy Dean for Science and International Cooperation of the Faculty of Special and Inclusive Education at Armenian State Pedagogical University (ASPU), and Lilit Karapetyan, Acting Head of the Chair of Special Pedagogy and Psychology, made a working visit to the Polytechnic Institute of Porto in Portugal.

The visit was organized within the framework of the international Erasmus+ teaching mobility program.

This initiative aims to promote international cooperation between the two institutions in question, contribute to the development of the program content, ensure access to different teaching methods and modern research [in the field] for students of the Portuguese university. It plays an important role in the process of internationalization and modernization of the two educational institutions. This academic cooperation contributes to the creation of a more integrated higher education system, in line with the goals of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).

For ASPU, such mobility is an opportunity to gain valuable international experience, increase recognition of the teaching staff, and enrich the curriculum with international components. It promotes the exchange of effective experience in teaching and research, laying the foundation for joint research initiatives and future partnerships.

During the visit, modern approaches in the field were presented during lectures. Also, meetings and discussions were held with the teaching staff of the Faculty of Education of the Portuguese university, with the aim of comparing methodological approaches, exchanging ideas, and promoting academic dialogue.

Collaboration with Portuguese partners is a valuable opportunity for professional development in terms of studying innovative teaching methodologs and new academic environments.

During the meetings, opportunities for cooperation in the fields of special and inclusive education, as well as special psychology, were outlined, with the aim of promoting joint research projects and programs. The cooperation between the parties continues to expand. Representatives of the Faculty of Education of the University of Porto are expected to visit to ASPU next year.