Aybegün TON

I am Assoc. Prof. Aybegün Ton. Between 13 and 21 April 2026 I completed the The Power of Stories - Digital Storytelling Erasmus+ mobility in Puck, Poland.

It was a highly productive and effective period of training, both for my professional development and for my capacity to engage with other cultures. Over the course of the training I gained important knowledge of digital storytelling, creative methods of expression and the Berkeley Method.

The Digital Storytelling Experience

Throughout the programme I experienced how digital storytelling is not merely a technical production process but a powerful method that allows people to make sense of their own life experiences, express them and share them with others.

The exercises based on the Berkeley Method helped me evaluate the personal, social and educational dimensions of stories in greater depth. I saw that this method can be used very effectively in education, youth work and personal development.

Contribution to Professional Practice

I believe the knowledge and skills I gained during this training will add value to teaching at university. The digital storytelling approach offers real opportunities for students to express themselves, structure their experiences and take an active part in creative production.

The programme was also valuable for working with participants from other countries, producing together and developing intercultural communication skills. I had the chance to be in a genuinely enjoyable and productive environment with my fellow participants, in both communication and cooperation.

Intercultural Learning

The training in Poland was enriching not only academically and professionally but culturally. Sharing a learning space with participants from other countries, encountering different perspectives and working together made the experience far more meaningful.

This mobility showed me once again how strongly international education programmes contribute to professional development, cultural awareness and the ability to collaborate.

Thank You

Thank you to Halil Özkaraca and to KOZ-DER for making this opportunity possible and for their support throughout.

I would also like to thank Kasia LU, Aleksandra, Kas and Richard Posthumus for their contribution and support during the training in Poland.

This mobility will stay in my memory as a valuable experience in my professional journey.