ABG advances learning: internal seminar and pedagogical innovation

Presidential vision serving innovation

From history to modern methods: ABG DNA in evolution

AFEST at the heart of transformation

Intelligence collective et co-construction

Team

Presidential vision serving innovation

On September 15th, 2025, the ABG team gathered at UTC Paris for an exceptional internal seminar: "Innovating at ABG in & for training". This initiative, driven by President Jean-Luc Beylat's vision, illustrates the Association Bernard Gregory's constant commitment to continuous improvement of its support practices.

From history to modern methods: ABG DNA in evolution

Thao Lang, Training and Support Manager, opened the day with a fundamental presentation on the definition of innovation at ABG and the historical evolution of emblematic training programs. Her detailed timeline revealed a trajectory of continuous innovation since 1997:

• from the pioneering Doctoriales (ABG's flagship doctoral training program) to the New Chapter of the Thesis (NCT) in 2000,
• followed by EDEN for industry-sponsored PhD students (2006),
• Avanthèse (2008),
• PostDoctoral (2012),
• Thematic workshops and coaching (2013),
• Supervisor training (2014),
• Research Games (2015),
• Online workshops (2017), up to the development of customized training programs in English since 2018.

This presentation demonstrated that ABG innovation is not limited to pedagogical content, but extends to a comprehensive approach: innovation in our pedagogical approaches, in our communications, in our relationships with partners, and in our internal collaborative work. More than 25 years of continuous evolution testify to this innovative DNA anchored in the association.

Dr Dominika Foretek, International Cooperation and Training Officer, then presented modern training implementation methods. Her analysis highlighted how ABG integrates the latest pedagogical innovations to meet the evolving needs of the doctoral support market and international partnerships.

AFEST at the heart of transformation

Led by Frédérique GERARD, doctorate in education sciences and AFEST specialist (Workplace Learning Action), the seminar enabled the entire training team and management to master this innovative methodology. As a former participant in our training programs who has maintained a privileged relationship with ABG - a collaboration we particularly value - she brought a unique perspective, combining knowledge of our ecosystem with methodological expertise. AFEST, recognized for its effectiveness in professional skills development, offers a personalized and adaptive approach to support.

The team concretely experimented with AFEST debriefing tools, testing their relevance in various doctoral support situations. This practical approach revealed the considerable potential of this methodology to enrich ABG's training offer.

Collective intelligence and co-construction

Beyond AFEST training, the day was an opportunity for in-depth collective brainstorming. The ABG team analyzed its current practices, identified improvement areas, and co-constructed innovative solutions to better meet the evolving needs of the doctoral support market.

• This participatory approach enabled the emergence of concrete ideas to:
• Adapt to contemporary expectations;
• Strengthen ABG communication and visibility; 
• Develop new strategic partnerships;
• Optimize individual and collective support methods.

This innovation day translates into direct improvements for ABG service beneficiaries, in perfect continuity with the association's heritage and adaptation capacity.

ABG, actor of pedagogical innovation

This internal seminar testifies to President Jean-Luc Beylat's vision and Director Chantal Vernis's commitment to maintain ABG excellence and leadership in doctoral support.

Leadership team:

• President: Jean-Luc Beylat
• Director: Chantal Vernis (chantal.vernis@abg.asso.fr)

Expertise departments:

• Innovative Training and Support: Dr Sandra Giron, Julie Floch, Dr Felisa Berenguer, Thao Lang, Dr Vincent Mignotte
• International Cooperation: Dr Kristina Berkut, Dr Dominika Foretek, Dr Tania Suvorova
• Communication: Véronique Dupont, Ouissame Benfaida

Management and Administration: Nathalie Guyonnet, Mélany Martin