What I've learnt from teaching in Kyiv amid a war

Abstract

This article discusses the innovative adaptations of Ukrainian universities to remote learning amidst the ongoing war with Russia. Since the invasion in February 2022, the academic landscape in Ukraine has faced significant challenges, including power cuts, air-raid alerts, and the displacement of students. Makhovych, a senior lecturer at Kyiv National University of Technologies and Design, shares her experiences of teaching English using a blend of online and offline methods. Her doctoral research focuses on gamification to enhance student motivation and individualized learning. The article highlights how Ukrainian educators have created hyper-individualized learning environments to cater to diverse student needs, employing platforms like Quizlet and Kahoot for flexible, self-paced learning. These innovations, driven by necessity, offer valuable lessons for global education systems. Makhovych calls for international collaboration and support to sustain educational and research efforts during the conflict, emphasizing that education provides a semblance of normalcy and hope for the future amidst the turmoil.