Kauno kolegija Associate Professor’s internship in Italy strengthens international research and UNINOVIS partnership

Dr Marijana Prodanović, Associate Professor at the Language Centre of the Faculty of Arts and Education at Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution, is currently undertaking an internship at the University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli in Italy. The visit is organised within the framework of the European University Alliance UNINOVIS – Data for L.I.F.E., which brings together eight higher education institutions, including Kauno kolegija. The alliance aims to strengthen studies, research, and innovation in the field of applied data science while creating value for society.

When research goes beyond the classroom: insights born in everyday experiences

During the internship, Dr M. Prodanović focuses on research in intercultural communication. Together with Professor Margherita Rasulo, she is initiating a joint research project exploring how communication functions within the context of European university alliances.

‘This period has allowed us not only to refine our shared research directions but also to build a strong foundation for long-term collaboration,’ says Dr M. Prodanović.

The internship is marked by intensive academic activities, including research meetings, literature analysis, and conceptual discussions on communication processes in international networks. However, as the lecturer emphasises, the most valuable insights often emerge beyond formal settings.

‘Intercultural experience reveals itself in everyday academic situations – in corridor conversations, meetings, or even university cafés,’ she shares.

Asked what she would recommend to students coming to study abroad, Dr M. Prodanović highlights the importance of informal experiences:

‘I would encourage students to spend as much time as possible within the university environment and everyday academic spaces – cafés, corridors, informal gatherings – as this is where intercultural experience truly comes to life. Of course, an added benefit is the opportunity to explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of Caserta and Naples.’

In the age of data, understanding people matters most

Upon returning to Kauno kolegija, Dr M. Prodanović plans to apply the knowledge gained during the internship, with a particular focus on qualitative research methods, including observation, narrative analysis, and the study of everyday academic interactions. According to her, these approaches enable a deeper understanding of how intercultural communication operates in real-life contexts rather than only at a theoretical level.

The internship also contributes to strengthening the UNINOVIS alliance partnership.

‘Such initiatives transform collaboration from a formal agreement into a living academic connection. It becomes a space where lecturers and students learn to collaborate, communicate, and innovate through diverse institutional and cultural experiences,’ notes Dr M. Prodanović.

She emphasises that in today’s global and data-driven world, technical skills alone are not sufficient. Equally important are the ability to communicate across cultures, critical thinking, and international collaboration.

‘Data can tell us a lot, but only by understanding people can we turn information into meaningful decisions,’ she adds.

Italy and Lithuania: differences that open new research perspectives

The internship has also highlighted cultural differences between academic environments in Italy and Lithuania. In Italy, academic culture tends to be more dialogue-based, relational, and reflective, whereas in Lithuania it is often more structured. According to Dr M. Prodanović, these differences provide valuable material for further research.

When asked to describe her experience in one sentence, she concludes:

‘It is the beginning of a meaningful shared academic journey, grounded in curiosity, intercultural understanding, and the spirit of collaboration.’

This internship demonstrates that international partnerships not only expand academic horizons but also create meaningful connections that become the foundation for new ideas and innovation.