SKILLS AND NEEDS OF THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UKRAINIAN ACADEMIC COMMUNITY IN THE CONTEXT OF THE OPEN SCIENCE CONCEPT

Abstract

Data manipulation proficiency is indispensable to a researcher’s competency in the contemporary digital world. The pivotal foundation for crafting programs aimed at professional development lies in continuously monitoring and assessing the evolving landscape of pertinent knowledge and skills, alongside discerning the needs of scholars in these domains. This research unveils the findings derived from surveys conducted among scholars, elucidating their competencies in data manipulation and the internationalisation of research activities. The surveys were undertaken as part of the «Enhancing Empirical Academic Research in Ukraine, ERIKA» educational project in 2023. In total, more than 60 people from 13 regions of Ukraine, representing 29 educational institutions, took part in the project’s training sessions (March and October 2023). More than 50 persons participated in the surveys. Encompassing diverse scientific disciplines, hierarchical positions (ranging from senior teachers to department heads), and varying educational attainments (ranging from master’s degrees to doctorates), the participants provided multifaceted insights. The findings reveal that most respondents exhibit only a superficial acquaintance with the concept of open science, needing to gain adeptness in handling diverse file formats, conducting effective data searches, mastering citation formatting, and utilising digital services for disseminating research outcomes. Contrastingly, the study found a high motivation among researchers to attain compelling scientific results and actively engage in international endeavours. This underscores the pressing need for meticulously crafted programs in professional training and continued education for researchers. Such initiatives are imperative for unlocking scientific research potential and facilitating Ukraine’s integration into the European research space.