Hanna Podosynnikova, Head of the Department of English Philology and Linguodidactics and Head of the Inter-University Research Laboratory of Modern Technologies for Teaching Foreign Languages and Cultures at Sumy State Pedagogical University (PhD in Education, Associate Professor), together with Tetiana Dokashenko, Lecturer at the Department, participated in the 36th Annual TESOL-Hungary International Conference “Level Up Conference”, held on October 2–3,2026, in Budapest, Hungary.
The event took place within the framework of international academic mobility. It provided a valuable opportunity to present the expertise of Sumy State Pedagogical University on an international professional platform, engage in discussions on current issues in foreign language education, and exchange best practices in pre-service English teacher training.
As part of the conference, they presented a joint study titled “From Classroom Experience to Literary Voice: Pre-Service Teacher Insights.” The application, research materials, and presentation were co-authored by Hanna Podosynnikova and Tetiana Dokashenko, with Hanna Podosynnikova delivering the presentation in Hungary on behalf of both authors.
The presentation highlighted the experience of organizing the International Creative Writing Contest “My Teaching Practice Insights: Literary Improvisations Based on Favourite Motives of American and British Authors (with the Use of Digital Educational Tools).” In 2026, the contest was held for the fourth time. Its key partners and international collaborators include TESOL-Ukraine, TESOL Türkiye, alongside universities and educational institutions from Ukraine, the United States, Moldova, Bulgaria, Hungary, Austria, and Poland.
The conference programme covered a broad spectrum of contemporary topics, including the application of artificial intelligence in language education, gamification, student motivation and autonomy, social and emotional learning, inclusive and neurodiverse education, Academic English, intercultural communication, and STEAM-based approaches. The insights and expertise gained will be applied to enhance the Department’s curriculum, refine teaching methodologies, and strengthen practical training for future language educators.
Furthermore, participation in the academic mobility programme helped expand the Department’s global professional network. Direct engagement with international colleagues fostered new professional connections and laid the groundwork for future joint research and educational initiatives. Notably, several conference participants were invited to serve as jury members for international competitions hosted by the Department.
Overall, participating in the 36th Annual TESOL-Hungary International Conference was not only a platform to showcase Sumy State Pedagogical University’s academic achievements, but also a meaningful step in advancing faculty professional development, integrating contemporary global practices into teacher training, and strengthening the university’s international profile.
We express our sincere gratitude to the conference organizers for this wonderful opportunity to engage in international academic dialogue, exchange valuable experience, and foster professional growth.