Psychologist's Day: Internationalization of Russian Education and Psychology

On Psychologist's Day, Doctor of Psychology, Professor of the Russian Academy of Education, Head of the Department of General Psychology at Penza State University, Professor Vsevolod Konstantinov answered current questions.

- Professor Konstantinov, in the autumn, PSU hosted the International Forum "Internationalization of Russian Higher Education: Pedagogical Innovations, Problems, Prospects". What main trends did it "highlight"?

- For us, psychologists, the forum held at PSU was a real event. In fact, we got a unique opportunity in an intensive dialogue with fellow teachers through turning to pedagogical methodology to take a new look at the problems of the field of psychology. The trend of increasing the number of international students in Russian universities raises the problem of supporting incoming students, their effective adaptation to the conditions of the educational space of the university and other issues to a new level. Communicating with my colleagues, I am convinced that, if we talk about accumulating experience, quantity will grow into quality. Today, more than ever, it is important for us to be aware of the potential risks and our area of responsibility when organizing psychological support for an international student at a university.

- What does the launch of an educational programme in psychology using an intermediary language (English) on November 1 mean for the Department of General Psychology?

- As it turns out, we actually became pioneers in launching an English-language bachelor's degree programme in psychology at regional universities. For the department, this became a challenge that forced us to rethink our self-development. The department staff are improving their foreign language skills, preparing for new aspects of the educational process. It's great that such a motive for development has appeared. A chance to gain a unique new experience that is interesting not only here, but also far beyond the region.

- Can we talk about the growth of international demand for Russian psychological education?

- I think we now have the opportunity to formulate, in essence, a certain offer for internatinal students that will be competitive. According to the characteristics that lie on the surface, we will note the ratio of the content and cost of education. I really hope that we will be able to take advantage of this window of opportunity and do everything to promote our Russian psychological education as much as possible as an export product.