For Chaido Gkargkinoudi, PhD Candidate in Education at the European University Cyprus, research focuses on how knowledge is constructed, shared, and transformed, with particular attention to the role of technology in early childhood education. Her work explores how digital and physical tools can support collaboration, participation, and meaning-making in constructionist learning environments.

This research trajectory was significantly advanced during a research stay at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, supported by the Utrecht Network Young Researchers Grant. What began as a mobility opportunity developed into a focused academic collaboration, directly contributing to the theoretical and methodological development of her PhD project.

Central to this experience was the collaboration with Dr. Zacharis, whose expertise helped refine the concept of artefacts in educational contexts. Discussions examined artefacts not only as physical or digital objects, but also as evolving representations of thinking and knowledge construction. This exchange was key in shaping the research design and developing a pilot study for the next phase of the doctoral work.

Reflecting on the experience, Gkargkinoudi notes: “The Young Researchers Grant provided the opportunity and the pathway to establish this collaboration.” Beyond enabling mobility, the stay created space for intellectual exchange across academic cultures, allowing her to reconsider her research from new perspectives. As she adds, “The experience allowed me to view my research through new lenses.”

The experience also contributed to her development as an independent researcher, encouraging critical reflection and dialogue within a different academic environment.