The Research Group of Abai KazNPU at Beijing Normal University and East China Normal University (China)

A research group of Targeted Financing Programme (IRN BR21882318) from Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University conducted a working visit to Beijing Normal University and East China Normal University in China at the end of 2024. A research group The research team consists of the programme manager Professor U.M. Abdigapbarova, the Director of the Department of Science and research professors O.B. Tapalova and A.E. Berikhanova, Associate Professor A.Zh. Syzdykbaeva and Ph.D. researcher S.Ch. Baisultanova.

The purpose of the trip was to expand collaboration with leading universities in the field of digital transformation of universities, develop network communication culture and digital etiquette, and exchange experiences with foreign scholars to improve the quality of specialist training.

At Beijing Normal University, a roundtable meeting was held with Professor Tong Lili of the School of Educational Technology, Dr. Wang Qixiao, Director of the International Exchange and Cooperation Office of the Faculty of Education, Dr. Liu Jing, Coordinator of the International Exchange and Cooperation Office Ms. Yu Guohuan, as well as doctoral students Abbas Wahab and Faraz Ahmad. They presented the university`s structure and achievements and discussed issues related to customizing the development of network communication culture and digital etiquette for faculty and students. The meeting also included discussions with the delegation of the Faculty of Education.

The research group also visited Beijing SHIHUA International Education Technology Co., Ltd., where a meeting was organized with the company`s president, Mei Yakun, and his team. The discussions focused on training international students in master`s and doctoral programs and enhancing the effectiveness of interactions between students and faculty using "online community" platforms.

A significant part of the visit was to East China Normal University in Shanghai, where the group met with Dr. Wang Haiyan. She introduced the Kazakhstani delegation to effective mechanisms for strengthening international relations and adapting faculty and students to the new digital environment.

The working visit proved highly productive, as valuable approaches to modernizing digital platforms were discussed, considering the cultural, educational, and technical features of various universities, along with opportunities for integration with existing learning management systems.