The University of Szeged marked a milestone this November by hosting the 25th National Conference on Educational Sciences (ONK). The event, held from 13 to 15 November, brought together 800 scholars, educators, and students from Hungary and abroad to discuss the past, present, and future of educational research. With 550 presentations spanning ten parallel sessions, the conference reaffirmed Szeged’s role as a hub for pedagogical innovation and cross‑disciplinary dialogue.
Why the 25th ONK Matters for Educational Professionals
ONK is more than a gathering of papers; it is a living laboratory where theory meets practice. The 25th edition continued the tradition of rotating host universities, returning the event to its birthplace after a four‑year cycle. The conference’s theme—“Educational Sciences Yesterday and Today – Challenges for the Future”—provided a framework for examining how historical insights can inform contemporary policy and classroom practice.
Key Themes Covered at the Conference
- Talent Development in Sport and Physical Education – Sessions explored how daily physical activity can be integrated into school curricula to support holistic development.
- Interest Theory and Motivation – Suzanne E. Hidi’s plenary lecture highlighted the link between intrinsic interest and academic achievement.
- Perseverance in Science Education – Nobel laureate Katalin Karikó shared her personal journey, emphasizing resilience, curiosity, and community support.
- Digital Technologies and AI in Learning – Workshops addressed the ethical and pedagogical implications of emerging tools.
- International Comparative Studies – Discussions on PISA results and cross‑border collaborations underscored the global relevance of local research.
Actionable Takeaways for Educators and Researchers
While the conference showcased cutting‑edge research, it also offered concrete strategies that can be applied in classrooms and research projects. Below are five actionable steps you can implement immediately.
1. Embed Interest‑Based Learning Activities
Hidi’s research demonstrates that students who feel personally invested in a topic perform better. Try the following:
- Start lessons with a real‑world problem that connects to students’ lives.
- Use project‑based learning to let students choose sub‑topics.
- Incorporate reflective journals to track evolving interests.
These practices align with the conference’s emphasis on motivation and can be adapted across subjects.
2. Foster Resilience Through Structured Failure
Karikó’s memoir stresses that setbacks are integral to scientific progress. In the classroom, you can:
- Introduce “learning from failure” workshops where students analyze unsuccessful experiments.
- Encourage peer review sessions that focus on constructive critique.
- Celebrate iterative improvement rather than perfect outcomes.
3. Leverage Digital Tools with Pedagogical Intent
Digital technologies were a major topic at ONK. To use them effectively:
- Choose tools that support active learning, such as interactive simulations or collaborative platforms.
- Set clear learning objectives before integrating new tech.
- Monitor student engagement and adjust pacing accordingly.
4. Build International Collaboration Networks
With one in five participants coming from abroad, the conference highlighted the benefits of cross‑border research. You can:
- Join international research consortia focused on educational outcomes.
- Attend virtual workshops hosted by partner institutions.
- Publish joint papers to broaden your academic reach.
5. Translate Conference Insights into Policy Recommendations
Policy makers attend ONK to stay informed. As a practitioner, you can bridge the gap by:
- Summarizing key findings in concise briefs for local education authorities.
- Participating in advisory panels or task forces.
- Advocating for evidence‑based reforms in curriculum design.
How the University of Szeged Supports Your Professional Growth
Beyond the conference, Szeged offers a range of resources for educators and researchers:
- Doctoral School of Education – Provides advanced training and mentorship for doctoral candidates.
- Motivation Community – Offers workshops and networking events focused on learner motivation.
- József Attila Study and Information Centre – Houses extensive collections of educational literature and conference proceedings.
- International Programmes – Enables study abroad and joint degree opportunities.
These platforms can help you apply the conference’s insights to your own context.
Next Steps for Educators and Researchers
To keep the momentum going, consider the following actions:
- Review the 630‑page abstract volume available on the ONK website to identify research gaps relevant to your work.
- Attend upcoming workshops hosted by the University of Szeged’s Faculty of Education.
- Collaborate with peers from the conference to develop joint grant proposals.
By integrating these steps, you can transform conference knowledge into tangible improvements in teaching and research.
Engage with the Community
We invite you to share your reflections on the 25th ONK and how its themes resonate with your practice. Your insights can inspire colleagues and shape future research agendas.
Submit your application today to join the next cohort of educational researchers at the University of Szeged.
Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how the university’s programs can support your professional goals.
Explore our related articles for further reading on educational innovation and policy.
Share your experiences in the comments below and contribute to the ongoing conversation about educational sciences.
