Navigating the 4th Barcelona Conference on Education: A Journey of Knowledge and Inspiration

I had the privilege of participating in the 4^th Barcelona Conference on Education held from September 19^th to 23^rd, 2023. This conference was organised by the International Academic Forum (IAFOR) in partnership with the IAFOR Research Centre at Osaka University. Drawing together a diverse cohort of 350 plus delegates from more than 60 countries, it was an immersive exploration of the multifaceted realm of education.

The conference embraced topics ranging from digital pedagogy and student learning diversity to special education, curriculum design, sustainable education, and interdisciplinary practices in Arts, Media, and Culture. I presented on the topic of Plurilingual pedagogy, particularly, Impact of Culture on Translanguaging Practices In Higher Education: A Case Study Of a European and an Asian University. I presented on “Cultural Influences on Translanguaging in Higher Education: A Comparative Study.” The focus of the study was on how culture impacts the practice of translanguaging, a dynamic language-learning approach involving multiple languages. It compared translanguaging receptiveness in English Medium of Instruction settings in the UAE and Finland, considering both European and Asian cultural contexts. I believe that delivering a presentation at such an international conference enhanced my professional reputation and offered me more opportunities for future collaboration. It also significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth.

The Barcelona Conference on Education was able to create an environment where academics and scholars from all walks of life could converge. Age, background, and cultural diversity faded into insignificance as we engaged in dialogue and knowledge exchange. It was an intellectual melting pot where ideas flowed freely, and perspectives were enriched by the unique cultural and disciplinary backgrounds of each participant. What impressed me the most was the extraordinary network of individuals and institutions that had united around IAFOR to bring this exceptional event to life globally.

In conclusion, my journey to the 4^th Barcelona Conference on Education was a transformative experience that removed borders. It reinforced my belief in the power of global collaboration and the boundless potential of education to shape a brighter future. I fully admit that international conferences may involve higher costs compared to domestic ones, however, the benefits they offer in terms of diversity, networking, global relevance, professional recognition, and language skills development make them a more productive and enriching investment. I was again persuaded that in today’s interconnected world, many topics have global relevance, and international conferences are more likely to address worldwide significance issues.

Last but not least, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to the pedagogy grant providers at Tampere University Teaching and Learning Centre, the Head of TLC Sari Leinonen, and Tampere University Language Centre, where the Head Taina Juurakko-Paavola, and the English team leader, Nana Arjopalo, played an instrumental role. I must acknowledge their commitment to promoting language education and fostering global connections.

Galyna Dubova, PhD,
University Teacher in English
Faculty of Education and Culture
Tampere University