A warm and open relationship between teacher and pupil, lecturer and student, is a great aspiration – it is one that encourages learning, growth and the courage to ask questions. In order to emphasise the importance of creating such a relationship and having the courage to ask questions, Vilnius University (VU) is presenting the artistic project “Discover the World through Questions”, in collaboration with the portraitist and one of the most famous contemporary Lithuanian representatives of documentary photography, Tadas Kazakevičius.
Vilnius University lecturers and students
Alfredas Bumblauskas, Professor of the Faculty of History at Vilnius University (VU) and Professor Rimvydas Petrauskas, Rector of VU
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Professor Alfredas Bumblauskas: “I think you shouldn’t look down on people. I find it really off-putting that when people become "somebody", you turn into something "lower" to them. And this is easily felt in the student-teacher relationship."
Rector of VU, Professor Rimvydas Petrauskas: "It may seem like a trivial Latin expression – docendo discimus – but it's a profound experience to learn a lot while teaching. Sometimes simple questions from students make you think about things you maybe hadn't thought about, and give you a big push."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of History at Vilnius University can be found here.
Rector, Professor Rimvydas Petrauskas
and lecturer professor Alfredas Bumblauskas
Alfredas Bumblauskas, Professor of the Faculty of History at Vilnius University (VU) and Professor Rimvydas Petrauskas, Rector of VU
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Professor Alfredas Bumblauskas: “I think you shouldn’t look down on people. I find it really off-putting that when people become "somebody", you turn into something "lower" to them. And this is easily felt in the student-teacher relationship."
Rector of VU, Professor Rimvydas Petrauskas: "It may seem like a trivial Latin expression – docendo discimus – but it's a profound experience to learn a lot while teaching. Sometimes simple questions from students make you think about things you maybe hadn't thought about, and give you a big push."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of History at Vilnius University can be found here.
Professor Diana Ramašauskaitė and Student Elena Paškevičiūtė, Faculty of Medicine at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Professor Diana Ramašauskaitė: "In my opinion, openness, empathy and goodwill are very important in creating any relationship, including the one between a teacher and a student. Now another important aspect has emerged – precision. Everyone plans their time very precisely – both teachers and students. It is important to know each other's availability and to organise activities accordingly. This is more the case for research and other activities, as the studies themselves follow a timetable that is known from the beginning of the semester. Feedback is also important – even if it is very brief, reflection is essential."
Elena Paškevičiūtė: "I think that when it comes to the teacher-student relationship, mutual respect, expressing an opinion, effort, time and attention are very important and should be mutually appreciated. I believe that the best way to create a relationship between teacher and student is through discussion. The discussion engages the student and reveals him/her, allowing the teacher to identify the student's strengths and weaknesses and to adjust the learning process accordingly, as well as to maintain mutual interest. This process should include the freedom to make mistakes and the ability to admit that we are all imperfect. It is this humble perception that drives us to reach new heights together."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Medicine at Vilnius University can be found here.
Professor Diana Ramašauskaitė
and student Elena Paškevičiūtė
Professor Diana Ramašauskaitė and Student Elena Paškevičiūtė, Faculty of Medicine at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Professor Diana Ramašauskaitė: "In my opinion, openness, empathy and goodwill are very important in creating any relationship, including the one between a teacher and a student. Now another important aspect has emerged – precision. Everyone plans their time very precisely – both teachers and students. It is important to know each other's availability and to organise activities accordingly. This is more the case for research and other activities, as the studies themselves follow a timetable that is known from the beginning of the semester. Feedback is also important – even if it is very brief, reflection is essential."
Elena Paškevičiūtė: "I think that when it comes to the teacher-student relationship, mutual respect, expressing an opinion, effort, time and attention are very important and should be mutually appreciated. I believe that the best way to create a relationship between teacher and student is through discussion. The discussion engages the student and reveals him/her, allowing the teacher to identify the student's strengths and weaknesses and to adjust the learning process accordingly, as well as to maintain mutual interest. This process should include the freedom to make mistakes and the ability to admit that we are all imperfect. It is this humble perception that drives us to reach new heights together."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Medicine at Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Martynas Manstavičius and Student Viktorija Sikorskytė, Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate professor Martynas Manstavičius: "In my experience, a good teacher-student relationship requires a teacher's sincerity, openness and respect for the students, who are seeking knowledge, which in turn inspires the teacher to strive for excellence. On the other hand, it is important to let students know as soon as possible that it is possible to communicate confidently with the teacher, that they are not being looked down on in a formal way. Both sides benefit from the discussion, without prejudices or fears of saying the wrong thing or asking the wrong question, and good relationships last for a long time, even after the studies are over, as we watch the graduates move on along the path of life."
Viktorija Sikorskytė: "In my opinion, the most important thing in building a relationship between a teacher and a student is mutual trust, the student's fearlessness to ask questions, and the teacher's courage to answer the questions asked in order to start a discussion. Equally important is friendly and understanding communication that allows both teacher and student to develop."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics at Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Martynas Manstavičius
and student Viktorija Sikorskytė
Associate Professor Martynas Manstavičius and Student Viktorija Sikorskytė, Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate professor Martynas Manstavičius: "In my experience, a good teacher-student relationship requires a teacher's sincerity, openness and respect for the students, who are seeking knowledge, which in turn inspires the teacher to strive for excellence. On the other hand, it is important to let students know as soon as possible that it is possible to communicate confidently with the teacher, that they are not being looked down on in a formal way. Both sides benefit from the discussion, without prejudices or fears of saying the wrong thing or asking the wrong question, and good relationships last for a long time, even after the studies are over, as we watch the graduates move on along the path of life."
Viktorija Sikorskytė: "In my opinion, the most important thing in building a relationship between a teacher and a student is mutual trust, the student's fearlessness to ask questions, and the teacher's courage to answer the questions asked in order to start a discussion. Equally important is friendly and understanding communication that allows both teacher and student to develop."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics at Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Dovilė Pūraitė-Andrikienė and Student Monika Šukytė, Faculty of Law at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Dovilė Pūraitė-Andrikienė: "I have always believed that the key to quality studies is a relaxed atmosphere in workshops and lectures, sincere communication between teacher and student, as well as an individual approach to each student, because each of them is a person with a life experience, with different needs and a different perception of the world. When I work with students, I try to reflect back to my law studies and remember myself in my first or second year. What were my expectations of the study process? What was my understanding of law and my general view of the world? What did I expect from a teacher when I was 19–20 years old? It helps me to better understand students' needs, fears and expectations. I also try to inspire self-confidence in a young person. I always praise the active students for their excellent participation and encourage the shyer ones to debate and express their opinions. I never criticise for mistakes. On the contrary, I'm very happy to see mistakes! Only from mistakes do we learn, only by making mistakes do we improve and grow! So only working in a relaxed atmosphere and interacting with the teacher as equals will students want to learn, not because they are afraid to get a bad grade, but because they are interested!
Another very important aspect is a clear and structured presentation of the subject matter and the assessment criteria. I try to present the topic in a very clear and comprehensible way, and to be very specific about what students need to do for the assignment or workshop. A clear structure of the workshop (and its preparation) helps to avoid unnecessary tension during the course. As well as discussing the material, it is also important to engage students in a discussion that encourages them to look at the issue from different perspectives. To avoid the workshops becoming too monotonous or boring, I vary them with practical exercises, group work and debates, which help you to absorb the information and connect with the students even better. All in all, I work with students to give them not only knowledge, but also the courage to use it."
Monika Šukytė: "In my opinion, the most important thing in building a relationship between teacher and student is mutual empathy, the realisation that the person in front of you is a human being too, regardless of whether they are teaching or being taught. On the one hand, it is important for the student to empathise with the teacher's position, to try to understand the teacher's goals, strengths and weaknesses. This helps to be more forgiving and open about the teacher's work and efforts. On the other hand, it is also important for the lecturer to understand the student's position, to remember that he or she used to be one. The best relationships I had during my studies were with teachers who were supportive and empathetic towards the student."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Law at Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Dovilė Pūraitė-Andrikienė
and student Monika Šukytė
Dr. Dovilė Pūraitė-Andrikienė and Student Monika Šukytė, Faculty of Law at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Dovilė Pūraitė-Andrikienė: "I have always believed that the key to quality studies is a relaxed atmosphere in workshops and lectures, sincere communication between teacher and student, as well as an individual approach to each student, because each of them is a person with a life experience, with different needs and a different perception of the world. When I work with students, I try to reflect back to my law studies and remember myself in my first or second year. What were my expectations of the study process? What was my understanding of law and my general view of the world? What did I expect from a teacher when I was 19–20 years old? It helps me to better understand students' needs, fears and expectations. I also try to inspire self-confidence in a young person. I always praise the active students for their excellent participation and encourage the shyer ones to debate and express their opinions. I never criticise for mistakes. On the contrary, I'm very happy to see mistakes! Only from mistakes do we learn, only by making mistakes do we improve and grow! So only working in a relaxed atmosphere and interacting with the teacher as equals will students want to learn, not because they are afraid to get a bad grade, but because they are interested!
Another very important aspect is a clear and structured presentation of the subject matter and the assessment criteria. I try to present the topic in a very clear and comprehensible way, and to be very specific about what students need to do for the assignment or workshop. A clear structure of the workshop (and its preparation) helps to avoid unnecessary tension during the course. As well as discussing the material, it is also important to engage students in a discussion that encourages them to look at the issue from different perspectives. To avoid the workshops becoming too monotonous or boring, I vary them with practical exercises, group work and debates, which help you to absorb the information and connect with the students even better. All in all, I work with students to give them not only knowledge, but also the courage to use it."
Monika Šukytė: "In my opinion, the most important thing in building a relationship between teacher and student is mutual empathy, the realisation that the person in front of you is a human being too, regardless of whether they are teaching or being taught. On the one hand, it is important for the student to empathise with the teacher's position, to try to understand the teacher's goals, strengths and weaknesses. This helps to be more forgiving and open about the teacher's work and efforts. On the other hand, it is also important for the lecturer to understand the student's position, to remember that he or she used to be one. The best relationships I had during my studies were with teachers who were supportive and empathetic towards the student."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Law at Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Alfreda Šapkauskiene and Student Ieva Turskytė, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration of Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate Professor Alfreda Šapkauskienė: "A positive relationship between teacher and student is key to building rapport. A teacher can do more than just help a student to acquire competences in the subject they are studying. As a researcher, the teacher can involve students in research, act as an expert, provide guidance and help them to establish themselves in their careers. As a result, students who are proactive and committed develop a deeper relationship with their teachers, who often become mentors in their academic, scientific or professional careers."
Ieva Turskytė: "The relationship between teacher and student is an important part of the learning process. I think it is based on the student's desire and zeal to learn more than books and textbooks can give. But the support of the lecturer also makes a big difference, especially when a student starts to explore a completely new field. I am grateful to my lecturer Alfreda Šapkauskiene for her patience and willingness to help and answer questions. I wish everyone to find a mentor in their university who is passionate not only about their field, but also about sharing their knowledge with their student. Ultimately, the most important part of building a connection is a common goal that inspires us to work together."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration of Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Alfreda Šapkauskienė
and student Ieva Turskytė
Associate Professor Alfreda Šapkauskiene and Student Ieva Turskytė, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration of Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate Professor Alfreda Šapkauskienė: "A positive relationship between teacher and student is key to building rapport. A teacher can do more than just help a student to acquire competences in the subject they are studying. As a researcher, the teacher can involve students in research, act as an expert, provide guidance and help them to establish themselves in their careers. As a result, students who are proactive and committed develop a deeper relationship with their teachers, who often become mentors in their academic, scientific or professional careers."
Ieva Turskytė: "The relationship between teacher and student is an important part of the learning process. I think it is based on the student's desire and zeal to learn more than books and textbooks can give. But the support of the lecturer also makes a big difference, especially when a student starts to explore a completely new field. I am grateful to my lecturer Alfreda Šapkauskiene for her patience and willingness to help and answer questions. I wish everyone to find a mentor in their university who is passionate not only about their field, but also about sharing their knowledge with their student. Ultimately, the most important part of building a connection is a common goal that inspires us to work together."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration of Vilnius University can be found here.
Distinguished Professor Axel Holvoet and Dr. Vladimir Panov, Faculty of Philology at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Distinguished professor Axel Holvoet: "Our field – linguistics – is very special in Lithuania because many people come out of school with a normative approach to language: a "linguist" is supposed to be someone who understands the spirit of the language and teaches students how to speak and write correctly. So the teacher has to start by destroying his or her own authority or, more specifically, by trying to define and justify it differently. Our role as teachers should be to show students the way to an uncharted land, where discoveries and enlightenments await them as well as enigmas, fundamental and unresolved questions about the nature of language and the essence of human linguistic skills. These questions are answered in different ways by each generation of linguists, and to a certain extent by each linguist individually. We can also tell you about the insights of those who have travelled there before, and ask you to critically assess them. In the end, one of the students' responsibilities will be to critique what the teachers have created and move on."
Dr. Vladimir Panov: "With teaching experience in three countries, I have come to the conclusion that the relationship between teachers and students should be as non-hierarchical as possible. It is a relationship between colleagues as well as a mutual professional responsibility and respect, not a relationship between superior and subordinate. Although the teacher knows more than the student, it is his/her job to teach and the student's job is to learn. In practice, this means moving away from the school approach to education. It is also very important to show students that knowledge is not settled forever, but is constantly changing, and instead of focusing on what is known, to focus on the methods by which knowledge is achieved."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Philology at Vilnius University can be found here.
Lecturers distinguished prof. Axel Holvoet
and Dr. Vladimir Panov
Distinguished Professor Axel Holvoet and Dr. Vladimir Panov, Faculty of Philology at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Distinguished professor Axel Holvoet: "Our field – linguistics – is very special in Lithuania because many people come out of school with a normative approach to language: a "linguist" is supposed to be someone who understands the spirit of the language and teaches students how to speak and write correctly. So the teacher has to start by destroying his or her own authority or, more specifically, by trying to define and justify it differently. Our role as teachers should be to show students the way to an uncharted land, where discoveries and enlightenments await them as well as enigmas, fundamental and unresolved questions about the nature of language and the essence of human linguistic skills. These questions are answered in different ways by each generation of linguists, and to a certain extent by each linguist individually. We can also tell you about the insights of those who have travelled there before, and ask you to critically assess them. In the end, one of the students' responsibilities will be to critique what the teachers have created and move on."
Dr. Vladimir Panov: "With teaching experience in three countries, I have come to the conclusion that the relationship between teachers and students should be as non-hierarchical as possible. It is a relationship between colleagues as well as a mutual professional responsibility and respect, not a relationship between superior and subordinate. Although the teacher knows more than the student, it is his/her job to teach and the student's job is to learn. In practice, this means moving away from the school approach to education. It is also very important to show students that knowledge is not settled forever, but is constantly changing, and instead of focusing on what is known, to focus on the methods by which knowledge is achieved."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Philology at Vilnius University can be found here.
Professor Rolandas Meškys and Student Ieva Lingytė, Life Sciences Centre of Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Professor Rolandas Meškys: "Firstly, a mutual desire to grow, secondly, mutual trust, and thirdly, mutual tolerance, because, as we know, none of us is perfect and none of us will ever be."
Ieva Lingytė: "In my opinion, there are several aspects of maintaining a relationship with a student:
The first is the freedom to express sometimes even seemingly stupid ideas without being judged. This was also very important when communicating with Professor Meškys – he never judges, which helps to keep the team's drive alive. The same is true in lectures – knowing that the teacher doesn't need the information to be learned parrot fashion, that at any time, even during a presentation, I can be unafraid to say that there was something I didn't understand and can't explain very well, creates a strong bond and a willingness to get engaged in the teacher's subject even more. The professor always emphasises the importance of learning – that the most important thing is to learn, to experience, not to do it perfectly the first time. But when mistakes are made, it is important that the teacher helps you to understand them, to learn from them, and not to make them a second time.
The second aspect is an equal discussion and mutual respect. I never felt that the teacher looked down on our team. The discussions have always been equal and in-depth. The understanding of a student, the ability to create an informal environment with jokes, discussing sometimes off-topic things, allows you to relax and, in the end, to arrive at a much better final outcome of the discussion.
The third aspect is genuine interest. Sometimes the teacher would just write a message, drop in and ask how I was doing. In the same way, we used to come to him to tell him about our lives. I think knowing that the teacher genuinely cares about the process and progress, rather than the achievements, is also very important."
More information about study programmes at the Life Sciences Centre of Vilnius University can be found here.
Professor Rolandas Meškys
and student Ieva Lingytė
Professor Rolandas Meškys and Student Ieva Lingytė, Life Sciences Centre of Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Professor Rolandas Meškys: "Firstly, a mutual desire to grow, secondly, mutual trust, and thirdly, mutual tolerance, because, as we know, none of us is perfect and none of us will ever be."
Ieva Lingytė: "In my opinion, there are several aspects of maintaining a relationship with a student:
The first is the freedom to express sometimes even seemingly stupid ideas without being judged. This was also very important when communicating with Professor Meškys – he never judges, which helps to keep the team's drive alive. The same is true in lectures – knowing that the teacher doesn't need the information to be learned parrot fashion, that at any time, even during a presentation, I can be unafraid to say that there was something I didn't understand and can't explain very well, creates a strong bond and a willingness to get engaged in the teacher's subject even more. The professor always emphasises the importance of learning – that the most important thing is to learn, to experience, not to do it perfectly the first time. But when mistakes are made, it is important that the teacher helps you to understand them, to learn from them, and not to make them a second time.
The second aspect is an equal discussion and mutual respect. I never felt that the teacher looked down on our team. The discussions have always been equal and in-depth. The understanding of a student, the ability to create an informal environment with jokes, discussing sometimes off-topic things, allows you to relax and, in the end, to arrive at a much better final outcome of the discussion.
The third aspect is genuine interest. Sometimes the teacher would just write a message, drop in and ask how I was doing. In the same way, we used to come to him to tell him about our lives. I think knowing that the teacher genuinely cares about the process and progress, rather than the achievements, is also very important."
More information about study programmes at the Life Sciences Centre of Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Laurynas Jukna and Student Kristupas Vėta, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Laurynas Jukna: "The answer to such a question is not simple. First of all, a "vision" of the relationship between teacher and student should be defined. In my opinion, it could be a kind of communication in which both parties feel first of all at ease – being around and communicating is not stressful, and the communication itself is productive in terms of emotions and/or knowledge and is unconstrained.
Another equally important thing is to see students as personalities. In my case, I've been really lucky in a few more ways. The student groups I encounter are small. In addition, we have field studies, practical trainings, etc., some of which take quite a long time, almost a month. So you get to know each of the students quite well individually, which is very important for building and maintaining the relationship between student and teacher, and between students and the university."
Kristupas Vėta: "In my view, a teacher and a student should communicate as friends. The student must not be afraid to ask questions and talk things out, and the teacher should listen and help solve problems. Regular communication must not be formal, and both people must feel at ease. The most important thing is for both student and teacher to respect and understand each other. To a student, a teacher is a friend, who tries to pass on his or her knowledge and reveal the wonders of science."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences at Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Laurynas Jukna
and student Kristupas Vėta
Dr. Laurynas Jukna and Student Kristupas Vėta, Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Laurynas Jukna: "The answer to such a question is not simple. First of all, a "vision" of the relationship between teacher and student should be defined. In my opinion, it could be a kind of communication in which both parties feel first of all at ease – being around and communicating is not stressful, and the communication itself is productive in terms of emotions and/or knowledge and is unconstrained.
Another equally important thing is to see students as personalities. In my case, I've been really lucky in a few more ways. The student groups I encounter are small. In addition, we have field studies, practical trainings, etc., some of which take quite a long time, almost a month. So you get to know each of the students quite well individually, which is very important for building and maintaining the relationship between student and teacher, and between students and the university."
Kristupas Vėta: "In my view, a teacher and a student should communicate as friends. The student must not be afraid to ask questions and talk things out, and the teacher should listen and help solve problems. Regular communication must not be formal, and both people must feel at ease. The most important thing is for both student and teacher to respect and understand each other. To a student, a teacher is a friend, who tries to pass on his or her knowledge and reveal the wonders of science."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences at Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Elzė Rudienė and Student Antanas Bunikis, Business School of Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate professor Elzė Rudienė: "In my opinion, you can only build a relationship with a student if you see the student as your equal, but maybe with a little bit less experience. It's about respect and communication. My wish is to share the knowledge and experience that the student has not yet acquired. You never know which day a student will become your colleague."
Antanas Bunikis: "In my opinion, the connection between a student and a teacher starts from the first minutes in the lecture room, but if we want to have not only a connection, but also a relationship (and especially a good one), we must not be afraid to ask questions, to discuss and to argue. It is through communication that both sides discover their common interests, or lack of them."
More information about study programmes at the Business School of Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Elzė Rudienė
and student Antanas Bunikis
Associate Professor Elzė Rudienė and Student Antanas Bunikis, Business School of Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate professor Elzė Rudienė: "In my opinion, you can only build a relationship with a student if you see the student as your equal, but maybe with a little bit less experience. It's about respect and communication. My wish is to share the knowledge and experience that the student has not yet acquired. You never know which day a student will become your colleague."
Antanas Bunikis: "In my opinion, the connection between a student and a teacher starts from the first minutes in the lecture room, but if we want to have not only a connection, but also a relationship (and especially a good one), we must not be afraid to ask questions, to discuss and to argue. It is through communication that both sides discover their common interests, or lack of them."
More information about study programmes at the Business School of Vilnius University can be found here.
Aušra Kardašienė, Lecturer at Šiauliai Academy of Vilnius University, and Students Matas and Rokas Kavaliauskas
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Lecturer Aušra Kardašienė: "The first thing that came to my mind when answering this question was that I don't create anything on purpose. I always act in a natural way. Yet, if I had to name the "rules" that help me communicate with pupils or students... First of all, I ask my students not to call me teacher or lecturer, but just Aušra. I think it's the first step that brings me closer to students. Secondly, I am not afraid to be wrong, I am not afraid to apologise. Third, fourth, fifth... I know how to listen, I am sincere, and I have a lot of life and professional experience, which I willingly share with my students. I never start a lecture without first talking about "everything", without telling something about myself...
I have a lot of respect for students' time, I know how busy they are, so I often just ask them: how much time do we have today? This helps us to better plan our joint activities, assignments and to "keep up the pace". I keep my promises, so one of the most important values I promote to my pupils and students is trust. It's good to know that the students feel at ease with me, that they don't feel embarrassed, that they see me as a friend, and that they can ask me anything. And I try not to disappoint them. That is my secret."
Matas Kavaliauskas: "In my opinion, building a relationship with students is the most important thing a teacher can do. Without a solid foundation, without a relationship of trust and respect, there would be no quality learning. I think it's important to talk to teachers about topics that are not related to coursework. It should be useful for both teacher and student to talk about hobbies, sports, current events, funny stories from their personal life or any other topic. Why is it important? I believe that these conversations help to get to know each other and strengthen the relationship between teacher and student. As a student, I also try to build a relationship with my teachers, and I have my own internal rules that help me do that. For example, many students are hesitant to discuss questions with a teacher. In my opinion, a student should not be afraid to make mistakes and should try to answer the teacher's questions, which makes the teacher feel more comfortable and can help to solve a problem. One of my core values is respect for teachers. It's very important to respect the teacher, their opinion, their work, their preparation for lectures – only by showing respect can you get the same from the teacher."
Rokas Kavaliauskas: "In my opinion, building a relationship between teacher and student is all about mutual trust and respect. I think it is very important to create a friendly relationship that goes beyond school or university. It is important to talk openly about things that are going on in the world today, not just things that are directly related to lessons or lectures. It is the open conversations that help to create a positive relationship between the teacher and the student, which makes the student more comfortable and allows him/her to improve his/her academic performance."
More information about study programmes at Šiauliai Academy of Vilnius University can be found here.
Lecturer Aušra Kardašienė
and students M. ir R. Kavaliauskai
Aušra Kardašienė, Lecturer at Šiauliai Academy of Vilnius University, and Students Matas and Rokas Kavaliauskas
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Lecturer Aušra Kardašienė: "The first thing that came to my mind when answering this question was that I don't create anything on purpose. I always act in a natural way. Yet, if I had to name the "rules" that help me communicate with pupils or students... First of all, I ask my students not to call me teacher or lecturer, but just Aušra. I think it's the first step that brings me closer to students. Secondly, I am not afraid to be wrong, I am not afraid to apologise. Third, fourth, fifth... I know how to listen, I am sincere, and I have a lot of life and professional experience, which I willingly share with my students. I never start a lecture without first talking about "everything", without telling something about myself...
I have a lot of respect for students' time, I know how busy they are, so I often just ask them: how much time do we have today? This helps us to better plan our joint activities, assignments and to "keep up the pace". I keep my promises, so one of the most important values I promote to my pupils and students is trust. It's good to know that the students feel at ease with me, that they don't feel embarrassed, that they see me as a friend, and that they can ask me anything. And I try not to disappoint them. That is my secret."
Matas Kavaliauskas: "In my opinion, building a relationship with students is the most important thing a teacher can do. Without a solid foundation, without a relationship of trust and respect, there would be no quality learning. I think it's important to talk to teachers about topics that are not related to coursework. It should be useful for both teacher and student to talk about hobbies, sports, current events, funny stories from their personal life or any other topic. Why is it important? I believe that these conversations help to get to know each other and strengthen the relationship between teacher and student. As a student, I also try to build a relationship with my teachers, and I have my own internal rules that help me do that. For example, many students are hesitant to discuss questions with a teacher. In my opinion, a student should not be afraid to make mistakes and should try to answer the teacher's questions, which makes the teacher feel more comfortable and can help to solve a problem. One of my core values is respect for teachers. It's very important to respect the teacher, their opinion, their work, their preparation for lectures – only by showing respect can you get the same from the teacher."
Rokas Kavaliauskas: "In my opinion, building a relationship between teacher and student is all about mutual trust and respect. I think it is very important to create a friendly relationship that goes beyond school or university. It is important to talk openly about things that are going on in the world today, not just things that are directly related to lessons or lectures. It is the open conversations that help to create a positive relationship between the teacher and the student, which makes the student more comfortable and allows him/her to improve his/her academic performance."
More information about study programmes at Šiauliai Academy of Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Paulius Baronas and Student Eglė Tankelevičiūtė, Faculty of Physics at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Paulius Baronas: "I believe that a student should be treated equally as a scientist. In our case, as I am a supervisor rather than a teacher, the task is to tailor the assignment in line with the student's abilities, and most importantly, to allow for mistakes. Science is changing rapidly these days, and there are often questions about whether what we're doing today will be relevant ten years from now, so it's important not to lose your own curiosity and to be able to learn from the student. It's also important to involve students in social activities, because it's in informal settings that the best ideas are generated."
Eglė Tankelevičiūtė: "I think the most important thing is communication, and specifically agreement on what one person needs from the other. All people have weaknesses, and knowing where those weaknesses are is the easiest way to help fix them. This applies to carrying out experimental measurements, to studying and discussing theory, and to writing papers or theses."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Physics at Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Paulius Baronas
and student Eglė Tankelevičiūtė
Dr. Paulius Baronas and Student Eglė Tankelevičiūtė, Faculty of Physics at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Paulius Baronas: "I believe that a student should be treated equally as a scientist. In our case, as I am a supervisor rather than a teacher, the task is to tailor the assignment in line with the student's abilities, and most importantly, to allow for mistakes. Science is changing rapidly these days, and there are often questions about whether what we're doing today will be relevant ten years from now, so it's important not to lose your own curiosity and to be able to learn from the student. It's also important to involve students in social activities, because it's in informal settings that the best ideas are generated."
Eglė Tankelevičiūtė: "I think the most important thing is communication, and specifically agreement on what one person needs from the other. All people have weaknesses, and knowing where those weaknesses are is the easiest way to help fix them. This applies to carrying out experimental measurements, to studying and discussing theory, and to writing papers or theses."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Physics at Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Sandra Kairė and Student Martyna Vilutytė, Faculty of Philosophy at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Sandra Kairė: "As the philosopher Algis Mickūnas stated, a relationship is nothing other than seeing and experiencing the other person, through which we can get to know both the other person and ourselves. So for me, building a relationship with a student is first and foremost about seeing, hearing and responding to him/her, about shaping our shared experience and growing together. And that requires mutual respect and trust, as well as equality, sincerity and attentiveness. So for me, the relationship with a student is always a two-way process, where I get to know not only the student but also myself, where we can move towards something new, unexpected, meaningful. And this two-way process can lead to many things – to lasting friendships, to new discoveries together, to joint academic activities, to the desire to grow both personally and professionally."
Martyna Vilutytė: "I think one of the most important things in building any relationship, whether it's with your peers or with your teachers, is mutual respect. This is the best way to break through the hierarchical barriers where the student is afraid of the teacher and the teacher is afraid of the student. And beyond that, it's all about open and sincere communication, understanding that, regardless of our profession or achievements, we are all human beings with our own experiences, opinions and emotions."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Philosophy at Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Sandra Kairė
and student Martyna Vilutytė
Dr. Sandra Kairė and Student Martyna Vilutytė, Faculty of Philosophy at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Sandra Kairė: "As the philosopher Algis Mickūnas stated, a relationship is nothing other than seeing and experiencing the other person, through which we can get to know both the other person and ourselves. So for me, building a relationship with a student is first and foremost about seeing, hearing and responding to him/her, about shaping our shared experience and growing together. And that requires mutual respect and trust, as well as equality, sincerity and attentiveness. So for me, the relationship with a student is always a two-way process, where I get to know not only the student but also myself, where we can move towards something new, unexpected, meaningful. And this two-way process can lead to many things – to lasting friendships, to new discoveries together, to joint academic activities, to the desire to grow both personally and professionally."
Martyna Vilutytė: "I think one of the most important things in building any relationship, whether it's with your peers or with your teachers, is mutual respect. This is the best way to break through the hierarchical barriers where the student is afraid of the teacher and the teacher is afraid of the student. And beyond that, it's all about open and sincere communication, understanding that, regardless of our profession or achievements, we are all human beings with our own experiences, opinions and emotions."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Philosophy at Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Andrius Šuminas and Student Ugnė Unguraitytė, Faculty of Communication at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate professor A. Šuminas: "Mutual trust and cooperation towards a common goal are key."
Ugnė Unguraitytė: "I think the most important thing in building a teacher-student relationship is respect. As long as the teacher looks down on the student, as a lesser, inferior member of the community, there is no connection, no desire to achieve, no desire to do anything at all. The same goes for the student's attitude. If students see the teacher as unintelligent and ignorant, the motivation to both teach and build relationships is also lost.
Connection occurs when teachers and students interact as colleagues, when the student can be unafraid to ask questions, to admit that he or she did not understand something, to ask for more help, and the teacher agrees to give it. It's very important that the teacher doesn't judge you for mistakes or for wanting to double-check or ask questions. One of my teachers once said: "Only those who do nothing are never wrong." When you know this is the attitude of the teacher, you realise that your question is not an expression of weakness, and then there is no longer any hesitation about whether or not you can ask. Of course, when you do this, the result is much better for both the teacher and the student.
Sitting with wet palms and a trembling heart before asking a question leads neither to a good result nor to a student-teacher relationship. Only mutual respect can make the popular saying "University studies are the best years of your life" come true."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Communication at Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Andrius Šuminas
and student Ugnė Unguraitytė
Associate Professor Andrius Šuminas and Student Ugnė Unguraitytė, Faculty of Communication at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate professor A. Šuminas: "Mutual trust and cooperation towards a common goal are key."
Ugnė Unguraitytė: "I think the most important thing in building a teacher-student relationship is respect. As long as the teacher looks down on the student, as a lesser, inferior member of the community, there is no connection, no desire to achieve, no desire to do anything at all. The same goes for the student's attitude. If students see the teacher as unintelligent and ignorant, the motivation to both teach and build relationships is also lost.
Connection occurs when teachers and students interact as colleagues, when the student can be unafraid to ask questions, to admit that he or she did not understand something, to ask for more help, and the teacher agrees to give it. It's very important that the teacher doesn't judge you for mistakes or for wanting to double-check or ask questions. One of my teachers once said: "Only those who do nothing are never wrong." When you know this is the attitude of the teacher, you realise that your question is not an expression of weakness, and then there is no longer any hesitation about whether or not you can ask. Of course, when you do this, the result is much better for both the teacher and the student.
Sitting with wet palms and a trembling heart before asking a question leads neither to a good result nor to a student-teacher relationship. Only mutual respect can make the popular saying "University studies are the best years of your life" come true."
More information about study programmes at the Faculty of Communication at Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Deividas Šlekys and Student Rugilė Katinaitė, Institute of International Relations and Political Science at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate Professor Deividas Šlekys: "Openness. Without openness to new ideas, the teacher will not be able to listen to the student's suggestions, nor will he/she be able to stimulate the creative impulse. At the same time, the student should be open to the teacher's comments, criticism and advice. Openness in recognising that the teacher is not omniscient and that the student has not done or understood everything yet. This builds mutual trust, without which scientific and creative work is impossible. Teacher and student are a team. Without openness, there will be no trust, and without trust, there will be no working in tandem."
Rugilė Katinaitė: "I think it's important to ask questions! It is important that both teacher and student ask questions of each other. Everything is simpler then, and you can learn a lot. Every unspoken important thought or question means a missed wonderful conversation, which is what creates the bond between student and teacher."
More information about study programmes at the Institute of International Relations and Political Science at Vilnius University can be found here.
Associate Professor Deividas Šlekys
and student Rugilė Katinaitė
Associate Professor Deividas Šlekys and Student Rugilė Katinaitė, Institute of International Relations and Political Science at Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Associate Professor Deividas Šlekys: "Openness. Without openness to new ideas, the teacher will not be able to listen to the student's suggestions, nor will he/she be able to stimulate the creative impulse. At the same time, the student should be open to the teacher's comments, criticism and advice. Openness in recognising that the teacher is not omniscient and that the student has not done or understood everything yet. This builds mutual trust, without which scientific and creative work is impossible. Teacher and student are a team. Without openness, there will be no trust, and without trust, there will be no working in tandem."
Rugilė Katinaitė: "I think it's important to ask questions! It is important that both teacher and student ask questions of each other. Everything is simpler then, and you can learn a lot. Every unspoken important thought or question means a missed wonderful conversation, which is what creates the bond between student and teacher."
More information about study programmes at the Institute of International Relations and Political Science at Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Giedrius Romeika and Student Jorė Bendinskaitė, Kaunas Faculty of Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Giedrius Romeika: "A mutually beneficial collaboration is key to building a relationship between teacher and student. It involves both motivation and aligning, or at least sharing, goals and dreams. All teachers are very happy to have motivated students who know what they want. When working with such students, you don't have to spend a lot of time motivating them, engaging them, in other words, creating an "engagement show " in the lecture. There is an incentive for the teacher to keep searching for new knowledge, to evaluate it and to communicate it to the student. Just the kind of knowledge that a student asks for when sharing their plans or dreams.
Of course, the element of strengthening students' interest/motivation, does not completely disappear from the teacher's responsibilities – with a little more experience than the student, the teacher can make a reasoned assessment of what knowledge the student really needs to achieve a particular goal even if the knowledge seems "unappealing" at first glance, or hard to "grasp", or if the student doesn't see the point at that moment. To prove that knowledge is really needed, to explain where and when it will be useful – that's the job of a good teacher.
On the other hand, generational differences objectively exist, so from their students, teachers get information about trends, what the current generation of students is interested in, what examples and activities they are passionate about, what vocabulary they use. This knowledge is very important for marketing teachers doing research work, because it gives them an insight about the future consumers and their preferences and allows them to adapt the concepts and models they develop. The knowledge generated in this way is put into practice and benefits society."
Jorė Bendinskaitė: "I think the most important thing in building a teacher-student relationship is listening and understanding. We grow up in different times and have different attitudes, so it's normal that we don't see everything in the same colours. However, if we have enough willingness to listen and enough patience to understand, the student-teacher relationship will be one that evokes only the best emotions. I am very happy that the lecturers at Kaunas Faculty know how to listen and understand, and that we, as students, take from them an example to do the same. For this reason, we have a strong and good relationship."
More information about study programmes at Kaunas Faculty of Vilnius University can be found here.
Dr. Giedrius Romeika
and students Jorė Bendinskaitė
Dr. Giedrius Romeika and Student Jorė Bendinskaitė, Kaunas Faculty of Vilnius University
What do you think is the most important thing in creating a relationship between teacher and student?
Dr. Giedrius Romeika: "A mutually beneficial collaboration is key to building a relationship between teacher and student. It involves both motivation and aligning, or at least sharing, goals and dreams. All teachers are very happy to have motivated students who know what they want. When working with such students, you don't have to spend a lot of time motivating them, engaging them, in other words, creating an "engagement show " in the lecture. There is an incentive for the teacher to keep searching for new knowledge, to evaluate it and to communicate it to the student. Just the kind of knowledge that a student asks for when sharing their plans or dreams.
Of course, the element of strengthening students' interest/motivation, does not completely disappear from the teacher's responsibilities – with a little more experience than the student, the teacher can make a reasoned assessment of what knowledge the student really needs to achieve a particular goal even if the knowledge seems "unappealing" at first glance, or hard to "grasp", or if the student doesn't see the point at that moment. To prove that knowledge is really needed, to explain where and when it will be useful – that's the job of a good teacher.
On the other hand, generational differences objectively exist, so from their students, teachers get information about trends, what the current generation of students is interested in, what examples and activities they are passionate about, what vocabulary they use. This knowledge is very important for marketing teachers doing research work, because it gives them an insight about the future consumers and their preferences and allows them to adapt the concepts and models they develop. The knowledge generated in this way is put into practice and benefits society."
Jorė Bendinskaitė: "I think the most important thing in building a teacher-student relationship is listening and understanding. We grow up in different times and have different attitudes, so it's normal that we don't see everything in the same colours. However, if we have enough willingness to listen and enough patience to understand, the student-teacher relationship will be one that evokes only the best emotions. I am very happy that the lecturers at Kaunas Faculty know how to listen and understand, and that we, as students, take from them an example to do the same. For this reason, we have a strong and good relationship."
More information about study programmes at Kaunas Faculty of Vilnius University can be found here.