On May 6, 2025, the University of Graz successfully held an online webinar "Teaching with Technology in Higher Education" within the framework of the Erasmus+ project "Promoting Academic Freedom in Ukraine (FreeAc)" (ID KA220-HED-AB735F9). The event was specifically designed to empower academics to improve their teaching effectiveness through the strategic integration of technology in higher education, with a focus on increasing student engagement. The webinar attracted a significant number of participants, more than 70 academics from three Ukrainian universities that are partners of the FreeAc project: Sumy State University, International Humanitarian University (Odes), and Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.
The instructors were Simone Adams, an instructional design and educational technology specialist from the Center for Digital Teaching and Learning at the University of Graz, whose expertise includes the use of digital technologies and media in higher education, the design of blended learning environments, and the promotion of digital accessibility and inclusion; and Barbora Orlická, an instructional designer from the Center for Digital Teaching and Learning at the University of Graz, who focuses on developing staff trainings and creating a variety of support materials for technology-enhanced teaching and learning scenarios.
During the webinar, academics gained valuable insights and practical strategies for using technology to enhance their teaching practice. The discussion explored methods for expanding pedagogical approaches and transforming student engagement and learning, with a particular focus on facilitating effective communication beyond the traditional classroom. Key topics included facilitating social interaction, providing timely and meaningful feedback, and offering robust support in the digital environment. Participants highlighted the critical importance of a pedagogically sound approach to selecting and implementing digital tools, ensuring they effectively complement both face-to-face and synchronous online learning.