Between October 20 and 31, 2025, I had a fantastic opportunity to complete my TET internship with a research group at the University of Helsinki. The experience was educational and gave me a real understanding of academic research and data management.
During my internship, I worked with research data in many ways. I digitized and cleaned datasets, transferred paper-based materials into Excel spreadsheets, and organized them into formats suitable for analysis. I also crafted and cut out materials and games for evaluation and data collection. I learned how important it is in research to work precisely, systematically, and creatively. When I could not participate in a specific phase of the research, my supervisor and I designed hypothetical research setups. We explored how different variables or situations might affect results and how to ensure the credibility of the study. It felt rewarding to see how my work supported larger projects and helped me understand the research process as a whole.
One skill I improved significantly was using Excel. I used it for almost everything, whether entering data, organizing information, or filling about the mathematical books, and its content. One of my first Excel tasks was to thoroughly review the research group’s website and fill in columns and rows with details about what needed updating.
I also attended seminars and meetings, met various professors, and learned about their research. One highlight was a seminar led by a visiting professor from England who spoke about the special needs of young children. It was inspiring to see how research can genuinely impact people’s lives and improve education.
During the TET period, I attended a master’s level lecture on quantitative research methods. I learned about data analysis and its different stages. The lecture helped me understand familiar terms in a new way and see how they influence research methods. I also learned how programs like SPSS and Jamovi are used in analysis. After the lecture, I joined a short meeting with the course instructors. They discussed how to support students and adapt the course to their needs. These experiences helped me better understand how research, data, and teaching are connected in the academic world.
Building on the earlier lecture and the meeting with the instructors, today (30.10) I had the chance to attend the practical session of the course. I joined the class together with my supervisor, and this time I was not just observing. I had the wonderful opportunity to introduce myself to both the students and the teachers, which made me feel more involved in the academic environment. It was exciting to be part of a real university class and to see how theory from the lecture was applied in practice. The experience helped me connect the dots between research, teaching, and student interaction in a meaningful way.
After completing my work tasks, I started a school assignment: I interviewed members of the research group and asked each of them about their experiences and views on their current work. My main task was to write this article. It helps me reflect on what I have learned and look at things with a future perspective. It also gives future TET interns an idea of what they might do while working in a research group.
Overall, my TET internship at the University of Helsinki was both educational and inspiring. I learned a lot about research and university work. Most importantly, I realized that learning can be truly fun when it involves doing, curiosity, and real experiences.