MetaCivicEdu
Description
This project (2023 - 2026, KA220-SCH/Cooperation Partnerships in School Education) addresses the gaps in civic education in primary schools by enhancing teachers' skills and competencies in using metaverse technologies. It aims to empower educators with the tools to create engaging and impactful civic learning experiences, equipping young students with the knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors necessary for active participation in civic life. By leveraging advanced modern technologies, this initiative helps educators prepare students to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Supported by the European Commission, the project aspires to make civic education more effective, dynamic, and accessible through innovative applications of XR tools.
Basic information
Coordinator
The University of Piraeus Research Centre (UPRC), https://www.kep.unipi.gr/
Programme
Erasmus+ (programme-erasmus-plus)
Project Acronym
Target groups
education authorities, primary school students, researchers, teachers, trainee teachers
Topic
Technology, Education, Other
Start year
2023
End year
2026
Contact person
Sonia Andreou, sonia@cyprusinteractionlab.com
Metacivicedu is an innovative initiative that addresses critical gaps in primary school civic education through the integration of metaverse technologies. By empowering educators with XR tools, the project aims to foster a new era of immersive and engaging civic learning environments. Aligned with the priorities of the Erasmus+ Programme, Metacivicedu promotes common values, civic engagement, and professional development among educators. By merging cutting-edge technology with established educational practices, Metacivicedu ensures that civic education remains relevant, effective, and inspiring in the 21st century.
Contributions include:
- Enhancing Teacher Effectiveness: Advanced tools and methodologies empower teachers to connect with digitally native students and deliver impactful civic education.
- Fostering Active Citizenship: The project’s educational strategies instill values like democracy, participation, and civic responsibility in students.
- Promoting Lifelong Learning: Educators gain access to ongoing professional development opportunities, ensuring they remain at the forefront of educational innovation.
- Long-term Impact: The strategic application of XR technologies not only enhances immediate learning outcomes but also lays the foundation for sustainable educational reform. Students are equipped to become thoughtful, informed, and engaged citizens ready to navigate and contribute to the modern world.
Papers
Teacher Development
The project features a range of key activities designed to support teachers and improve civic education, including:
- Developing innovative methodological and pedagogical models tailored for metaverse-enabled civic education.
- Training educators to implement immersive learning scenarios within the metaverse.
- Conducting pilot studies to validate and refine these new educational practices.
- Promoting lifelong learning through the development and exchange of innovative teaching resources.
- Sharing best practices and results through conferences and events at national and European levels.