17 June 2026
STA Symposium on Theoretical Approaches and Current Debates in Social Sciences Held Successfully
The first session of the STA Symposium on Theoretical Approaches and Current Debates in Social Sciences, organized at Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU) under the coordination of Lecturer Dr. İrem Fulya Özkan, was held on June 15 under the chairmanship of Lecturer Yeliz Bilir. Bringing together academics and researchers from various universities, the symposium focused on contemporary theoretical approaches and current research topics in the field of social sciences. The opening speech was delivered by Associate Professor Sezgin Savaş, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts (FFA) at Istanbul Gelisim University.
The Importance of Theoretical Approaches in Social Sciences Highlighted
In his opening remarks, Associate Professor Sezgin Savaş emphasized the decisive role of theoretical frameworks in social science research. He stated that academic studies are not limited to the production of data, but also depend on theoretical approaches that help interpret and make sense of that data. Savaş expressed his hope that the symposium would provide a productive platform for interdisciplinary academic discussions.
Academics from Different Institutions Shared Their Research
Throughout the symposium, academics from various universities and institutions presented their research to participants. The sessions included presentations on social theory, communication studies, cultural studies, media, digitalization, artificial intelligence, and current social issues. Participants had the opportunity to explore perspectives from different disciplines and follow contemporary research trends. In this respect, the symposium served as an important academic platform that fostered knowledge exchange among researchers working in the social sciences.
Presentation by Visual Communication Design Academics
The symposium also featured the presentation of the paper titled “Transparency and Community Participation in Independent Digital Game Development Processes: The Case of Paralives,” prepared by Associate Professor Sezgin Savaş, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Istanbul Gelisim University, and Research Assistant Nuran Akarsu from the Department of Visual Communication Design. The presentation examined communication practices between developers and player communities in independent digital game development and evaluated the effects of transparency practices on community participation.
The STA Symposium on Theoretical Approaches and Current Debates in Social Sciences concluded as a significant academic event that brought together researchers from different disciplines, encouraged knowledge sharing, and contributed to contemporary discussions in the field of social sciences.