The Visit of Jonathan Titus, Professor of New York State University at Fredonia

On October 2, biologist Jonathan Titus, professor of New York State University at Fredonia, arrived at Astrakhan State University. During a week’s visit, the Professor delivered lectures to the students of the Department of Geology and Geography and the Department of Biology. The first lecture of the Professor was dedicated to critical thinking and the importance of implementing critical thinking principles not only in science, but also in other fields.

The following lectures were more field-specific: professor spoke about the role of invasive plant and animal species and its influence on environment, as well as about the consequences of volcanic eruptions. The lectures were delivered in English and were simultaneously interpreted by MA students of the Caspian Higher School of Interpreting and Translation. Moreover, Professor Titus took part in a mock-conference, organized by the students of the Caspian Higher School of Interpreting and Translation, and dedicated to the topic of critical thinking.

Professor’s visit was not limited to the walls of the university. MA students and teachers of the Caspian Higher School of Interpreting and Translation arranged an entertainment program for Jonathan Titus. Professor visited the unique complex Sarai Batu, got acquainted with the local biological species in the Astrakhan Museum of the Local Lore.

As it was the first Professor`s visit to Russia, the students and the teachers tried to give him a better understanding of the Russian culture. Mr. Titus visited Astrakhan State Art Gallery and had an opportunity to try dishes of Russian cuisine.

 During the last day of his visit Professor took part in the teacher training seminar and shared his educational experience and the latest  teaching techniques he uses in New York University with Astrakhan colleagues. Professor expressed a wish to come back to Astrakhan again for a longer period of time.

 The foreign professors visits are always very important for the Caspian Higher School of Interpreting and Translation, because it`s a great opportunity to practice both consecutive and simultaneous interpretation skills. We thank Professor Titus for his coming to our university and we hope to see him again soon.