Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods

During the period from June 18-22, 2024, teaching staff of Astana International University took advanced training courses on the topic: “Introduction to qualitative research methods”, organized by the Graduate School of Education of Nazarbayev University. This course is specifically designed for social science and education educators seeking to deepen their knowledge and skills in conducting qualitative research.

The goal of the course initiatives is to contribute to the systemic transformation of higher education institutions. This transformation involves a transition to a new management model, the development of leadership and professional skills of top managers, as well as managing complex processes of change in the educational sector.

Particular attention was paid to practical classes, which allowed students not only to gain theoretical knowledge, but also to apply it in practice. The course “Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods” became an important stage in the professional development of teaching staff and helped to acquire valuable skills and knowledge necessary for conducting qualitative research.

The course syllabus includes topics such as qualitative research design, literature review, data collection and analysis, as well as the basics of research ethics and its importance for research quality and research integrity. Particular emphasis is placed on practical training for deep immersion in qualitative research methods.

Leading teachers of Astana International University presented a project on the topic: "Academic Writing: Challenges and Perspectives of Low-performing Students at EMI Universities: A Case Study"

The project is dedicated to researching academic writing and the difficulties faced by low-achieving students at English-medium universities. In our study, we tried not only to identify the main problems, but also to propose ways to overcome them.

Colleagues noted the significance of the topic and the high practical value of the data presented. We hope that the results of our research will contribute to the development of educational practices and will help students more successfully adapt to the academic requirements of universities with English as the language of instruction.

We express special gratitude to young scientists from Astana International University: Head of the department, senior lecturer Amangeldy Kazizov, senior lecturer Aliya Asylbekova, senior lecturer Gulnur Kantaeva, lecturer Dinara Kaharman, senior lecturer Aiman ​​Aliyeva, senior lecturer Gulnara Kazieva, lecturer Kamila Rakhmatulina, lecturer Malika Imangaliyeva, senior lecturer Zhanna Sagitova, senior lecturer Gulnara Akhmetova, senior lecturer Aliya Akimkhanova, lecturer Aktipan Tolstoy, lecturer Madina Nytmetova and senior lecturer Aigerim Kazhigaliyeva.

The President of Astana International University, Serik Irsaliyev, is committed to the professional development of the teaching staff of his university. This year, AIU lectures have already undergone training at GSENU in three programs within the framework of the World Bank project: “Modernization of educational programs”,

"Methodology of teaching CLIL/STEAM",

"Leadership in Education."