The first edition of the Methodology School of the University of Silesia – a five-day event dedicated to the development of research skills and the refinement of academic methodology – has come to an end. As part of the programme, five interdisciplinary teams worked on research projects under the watchful eye of experts, drawing on the diverse perspectives and experiences of the participants. The teams were led by the following experts: Rafał Borysławski, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (literary studies); Damian Guzek, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (communication and media studies); Karina Leksy, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (pedagogy); Mauro Arturo Rivera León, PhD, DLitt (law) and Katarzyna Węsierska, PhD, DLitt, Assoc. Prof. (linguistics). The opening ceremony was presided over by Prof. Ryszard Koziołek, Rector of the University of Silesia, who delivered an inaugural lecture on the importance of methodology in academic research. Referring to the challenges facing contemporary science, he highlighted both the threats and the opportunities confronting researchers today.
The initiative was coordinated by Prof. Agnieszka Turska-Kawa, PhD, Vice-Rector for Research. Participants in the School had the opportunity to benefit from the expertise of experienced lecturers. The School’s programme comprised a series of lectures and workshops designed to develop the skills essential for contemporary academic work. Participants honed their skills in academic writing, qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, research data management, and the use of artificial intelligence tools in academic work. Classes dedicated to wellbeing and the prevention of mental overload were also an integral part of the programme. Each day began with a yoga session, and participants also had the opportunity to take part in workshops on coping with stress and building well-being. Detailed information on the projects being carried out was presented on the Research Excellence Initiative programme website.
This year’s edition will culminate in a wrap-up meeting, scheduled for 26 October 2026, during which participants will present the results of their work and summarise the experiences gained during the Methodology School. The programme is co-financed by the Research Excellence Initiative programme.
