Thematic Groups and Workshops

Thematic Groups

We invite proposals for contributions to the thematic groups, which will emphasise interaction and dialogue. Participants are encouraged to present educational experiments, good practices, everyday tools, or research findings. Presentations may address current questions related to learning, teaching, and education through both practical and research-based perspectives. Topics may include, for example, innovative pedagogical solutions, teaching methods that take cultural diversity into account, and accessible models of educational support. Thematic groups will be formed on the basis of the submitted proposals.

Presentation guidelines:

The duration of each oral presentation is 10 minutes, followed by 5 minutes for questions and discussion.

Submission of proposals:

Proposals should be submitted via the Konsta registration system. Be prepared to provide the title of your presentation and a brief abstract (maximum 300 words). The deadline for submitting proposals is 31 May, and applicants will be informed of the acceptance of their proposals by 18 June.

Workshops

In addition to participant-led thematic groups, a number of pre-organised workshops will also be offered (the list of available workshops will be updated during the spring). Registration for workshops and thematic groups will open in September 2025, and a separate email will be sent to participants with further instructions.

Workshop Descriptions

1. The Enchantment of Play – Imagination, Aesthetics and Child-Centredness in Teaching
This workshop explores the world of play, and the role of imagination and aesthetics in children’s development and learning. The focus is on strengthening children’s agency, participation, and creativity through child-centred approaches. Participants will experiment with different ways of constructing the world of play.
Facilitated by Petra Varttinen, University Teacher in Early Childhood Education, and Johanna Tigert, University Lecturer in Education.

2. Philosophy of Education and Handicrafts
This workshop invites participants to engage in discussions related to the themes of the Teacher Education Days through collaborative making and crafting.
Facilitated by Hilppa Jankama, Lecturer at Rauma Teacher Training School.

3. Skill and Arts-Based Pedagogical Collaboration with the Pikkunorssi early childhood education and care centre
Welcome to hear about the collaboration between the “Craft and Arts Education in Early Childhood” minor subject and the Pikkunorssi ECEC centre! Participants will have the opportunity to visit Pikkunorssi and try out the interactive Active Floor learning game. Limited to the first 20 registrants.
Facilitated by Pauliina Liukkoila, Deputy Head of Pikkunorssi, Tea Karppinen, University Teacher in Physical Education, and Maria Sula, University Teacher in Visual Art Education.

4. Into the Essence of Observation and Drawing: Contour Drawing
Welcome to the roots of drawing! In this short, intensive workshop, we will focus on sharpening observation and strengthening the connection between eye and hand through the use of a single line. The Contour Drawing exercise is simple yet powerful: participants draw a subject without lifting the pen from the paper, maintaining a steady gaze on the subject throughout.
This workshop is open to all—no prior experience required. The exercise promotes presence, concentration, and freedom from perfectionism. The results are often surprising, delicate, and powerful. Join us in discovering the zen of drawing and your own expressive style!
Facilitated by Olli-Pekka Kangas, University Teacher in Visual Art Education.

Photo: Suvi Harvisalo / Turun yliopiston viestintä