Observatory papers

In order to help the development and dissemination of different science education projects and document good practices in various aspects of STEM education, Scientix has set up the Scientix observatory. This observatory provides short synthesising articles, focused on one or several related themes or initiatives, or the state of play of different topics related to science education.

Published Scientix Observatory papers:

Scientix Observatory February 2023 Prisco, L., Guiso, L., & Gras-Velazquez, A. (2024), Educators weigh in on the role of esports in schools - An inside look on esports in education, Scientix Observatory, August 2024

 

Introduction: The primary objectives of this report are to assess the level of knowledge about the topic of integrating Electronic Sports (eSports) in education among teachers as well as to gather their contributions, insights, and perspectives on the matter. During the 2024 STEM Discovery Campaign, educators were able to provide answers to a seven-questions survey designed to gather insights on eSports in education. A total of 96 responses were collected. In this document, we analyse the educators’ responses regarding the potential benefits of integrating eSports in the education framework, such as increased student motivation and engagement, alongside the concerns regarding excessive screen time, industry influence, and the sedentary nature of eSports. Additionally, we address the challenges educators face in implementing eSports, including funding limitations, curriculum constraints, and overcoming societal biases against video games. Finally, we outline the needs identified by educators for successful integration, such as curriculum guidance, access to technology and training, and a supportive environment for both teachers and students. By examining these diverse perspectives, we aim to provide a preliminary understanding of the complex landscape surrounding eSports in education.

 

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Scientix Observatory February 2023 Molina Ascanio, M. & Tasiopoulou, E. (2023), Outdoor learning in ECEC using EdTech and the STE(A)M
approach
Scientix Observatory, March 2023

 

Abstract: Children are growing disconnected from nature. The urbanisation process and the increase in entertainment options indoors and in virtual spaces imply a loss of physical and psychological benefits in the new generations. As an agent of socialisation, school must offer opportunities for students to develop curiosity, respect, and concern for the natural world. This paper aims to bring nature closer to early childhood education and care (ECEC) students. For this, outdoor learning has been valued as a pedagogical method in ECEC and the use of technology has been argued to motivate experiences outside the classroom. The paper aims to serve as theoretical framework that inspire educators to design activities, methodology, and advice that can be easily adapted to the needs of different ECEC centres. The creative use of technology as a tool for outdoor learning makes it possible for children to reconnect with nature, growing their interest in protecting it.

 

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Scientix Observatory February 2023 Milanovic, I., Molina Ascanio, M., Bilgin, A. S., Kirsch, M., Beernaert, Y., Kameas, A., Saygın, S., Dancheva, T., Sayed, Y., Xhomaqi, B., Covernton, E., Sangiuliano, M., Agaliotis, I., Colli, A., Abrantes, S., Damjanoska, K., Quarta, B., Roig-Vila, R., Niewint-Gori, J., Van der Niepen, P., Gras-Velázquez, A.(2023), Inclusive STEM Learning Environments: Challenges and SolutionsScientix Observatory, February 2023

 

Abstract: While many believe all students should be taught equitably, in practice there are many barriers to achieving this goal, especially when it comes to inclusive Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology (STEM) learning environments. When considering such STEM environments, inclusiveness does not only refer to the education of students with disabilities, but also to those who are underrepresented in STEM due to ethnicity, gender or any other vulnerability factor. Scientix, the community for science education in Europe, organised an online Science Topics Networking Seminar (STNS) in collaboration with the projects SpicE – Special Education STEAM Academy1 and Far Beyond the Barriers2. At the event, 15 experts representing various stakeholders in STEM education came together to discuss the challenges of supporting inclusive STEM learning environments. This observation paper outlines the key discussion points raised during the seminar. The main points to consider in achieving an inclusive STEM learning environment are: (1) creating a personalised strategy for each student; (2) organising teacher training programmes on how to promote inclusivity in STEM teaching; (3) eliminating barriers, such as gender inequality or socio-economic barriers; (4) implementing policies to support inclusivity; and (5) involving parents and local communities.

 

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Scientix Observatory December 2022Molina Ascanio, M., Bilgin, A. S., Milanovic, I., Kirsch, M., Beernaert, Y., Valta-Hulkkonen, K., Neto, V., Fiz, R., Filip, D., Branca, S., Jaakkola, T., Papadakis, S., Thuillier, A., Cerrato, S., Barouta, M., Redondas, J., Stojanovic, I., Quarta, B., Van der Niepen, P., Gras-Velázquez, A. (2023), Innovative STEM teaching: the latest trends in STEM education?Scientix Observatory, January 2023

 

Abstract: Innovation in STEM education is not easy to define, and the COVID-19 pandemic showed how digital approaches are key to innovation in schools. Nevertheless, the focus on innovation should not stop with tools and technological solutions, but rather integrate methodologies and pedagogical approaches where students are at the centre of the learning process. To achieve this, capacity building for teachers is needed to develop soft skills and give them holistic perspectives that will allow them to find solutions to today’s problems. STEM education should help students to better understand our world. Classic approaches such as STE(A)M or a holistic approach to STEM offer opportunities for collaboration, creating projects beyond the classroom. The latest trends in STEM education (immersive learning, virtual experiences, creating content, sharing, and reflecting on their own, hands-on activities, and outreach programmes integrating families in the learning process) create some challenges and many opportunities in education. For example, bridging the digital and gender gap involves all students in STEM education. Choosing the right approach or methodology in STEM teaching is equally important to how school systems address the lack of time and flexibility of curriculums. These two aspects are essential for STEM education to be innovative.

 

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Scientix Observatory December 2022Bilgin, A. S., Molina Ascanio, M., Milanovic, I., Kirsch, M., Beernaert, Y., Charalompous, M., Chazot, C., Costello, E., Cuzic, I, Ali Gago, I., Kaurson, R., Kish, I., Lisotti, A., Messaritou, M., Minoli, M., Mudrinić Ribić, A., Nikolopoulou, K., Quarta, B., Pedralli, M., Saraiva, E., Solda, D., Sürmeli, H., Udrescu, I., Gras-Velazquez, A. (2022), STEM goes digital: how can technology enhance STEM teaching?Scientix Observatory, December 2022

 

Abstract: From simulations and online laboratories to adaptive learning and digital games, digital technologies can equip teachers with various tools to engage students in STEM topics, and they can empower students as active, autonomous learners. Furthermore, open digital resource repositories can facilitate knowledge exchange among teachers. However, digital practices are not being taken up at scale even after the COVID-19 pandemic experience that made educators more open to the use of technology in the classrooms. The challenges to going digital for STEM are complex and go beyond the lack of infrastructure. To exchange ideas on how to tackle these challenges, Scientix, the community for science education in Europe, organised an online Science Topics Networking Seminar (STNS) in collaboration with the M@thgan project and FizziQ. At the event, more than 20 experts representing various stakeholders in STEM education came together to discuss challenges to digital technology use in STEM education and the way forward for the meaningful use of digital technologies in classrooms. This observatory paper outlines the key discussion points raised during the seminar, supported by research from the scientific literature. First, professional development can encourage teachers to integrate technology more in their teaching. Second, digital resources are more effective when teachers customise them to adapt the content to their context. Third, blended activities that combine technology with hands-on or on-site elements can engage students in STEM topics more than activities that are fully digital. Fourth, digital tool developers and teachers can collaborate more through projects to align digital tools with classroom needs.

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Scientix Observatory December 2022Molina Ascanio, M., Bilgin, A. S., Milanovic, I., Kirsch, M., Beernaert, Y., Angelopoulos, P., Rosa, A., Müller, E., O' Reilly, N., Papadakis, S., Gostinčar Blagotinšek, A., Pedralli, M., D'Addato, A., Burdzina, A., La Scala, L., Pizzo, I., Djorovic, E., Tavaci, F., Górnowicz, K., Quarta, B., Vargas López, R., Traczuk-Rąpała, M., Papageorgiou, E., Gras-Velázquez, A. (2022), Early STEM: What are the needs for teacher training to explore STEM with the younger students?Scientix Observatory, December 2022

 

Abstract: Young children are curious explorers who want to discover and understand the world around them. They use their Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology (STEM) skills daily by building towers with blocks, collecting items and organising them, or observing nature and interacting with their environments through play. However, although science fascinates many children, the subject often seems to be lacking in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC). Scientix, the community for science education in Europe, organised an online Science Topics Networking Seminar (STNS) in collaboration with GFOSS. More than 20 experts, representing various stakeholders in STEM education, came together to discuss the challenges and progress from STEM initiatives to understand what the needs of teacher training are to explore STEM with the younger students. This observatory paper outlines the key discussion points raised during the seminar. The main points to consider in the success of initiatives are: (1) improving access to high-quality ECEC; (2) professionalisation of staff; (3) a child-centred curriculum; (4) monitoring and evaluation; and (5) governance and funding.

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Scientix Observatory October 2022Bilgin, A. S., Molina Ascanio, M., Milanovic, I., Kirsch, M., Beernaert, Y., Sotiriou, S., Gregori Montaner, A., Cornakov, S., Velner, G., Axisa, J. , Wellens, T., Muscat, M., Vaidelis, G., Messaritou, M., Goździk, A., Castilla Mora, L., Ivanova, I., Dariou, E., Yuste, A., Preda, E., Quarta, B., B. Domínguez, X., Kesting, F., Katikas, L., Mitic-Radulovic, A., Gras-Velazquez, A. (2022), STEM in the future: Transforming education for sustainability, Scientix Observatory, October 2022

 

Abstract: The European Green Deal states that schools play an important role in engaging with students and the wider community for environmental sustainability and develop the skills needed for a successful transition to a sustainable society. To explore the role of STEM education in sustainability, Scientix, the community for science education in Europe, organised an online Science Topics Networking Seminar (STNS) in collaboration with the projects GreenSCENT and Life Terra. At the event, more than 20 experts representing various stakeholders in STEM education came together to discuss good practices in STEM education in promoting sustainability education and supporting a green future. This observatory paper outlines the key discussion points raised during the seminar, supported by research from the scientific literature. First, there is an abundance of STEM resources and teaching material. There is a need to facilitate the evaluation and exchange of these resources and provide time and support to teachers for implementing them in their classrooms. Second, students could be more involved in sustainability activities that will help them see their impact on their immediate surrounding. This can be achieved with interdisciplinary activities that combine scientific concepts, critical thinking and active citizenship. A whole-school approach and greenifying schools can further engage students in taking action and be more motivated for STEM projects for sustainability. Third, more activities need to adopt the GreenComp and perform assessments based on it to test it as a competence framework. Finally, STEM education for sustainability can be further supported with school visits to nature reserves, science centres and companies involved in sustainability.

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Scientix Observatory February 2022Bilgin, A. S., Molina Ascanio, M., Milanovic, I., Kirsch, M., Beernaert, Y., Scicluna Bugeja, D., Noriega, M., Farrugia, J., Evagorou, M., Molina, P., Kapoor, K., Malmberg, B., Trullàs, M., Pedralli, M., Neuberg, C., Koliakou, I., Magid-Podolsky, S., Herrero, B., Christou, E., Niewint-Gori, J., Fabry, E., Quarta, B., Miotti, B., Muscat, M., Vargas, R., Gras-Velázquez, A. (2022), STEM Female Leaders – The Way Forward To Reduce The Gender Gap In Stem Fields, Scientix Observatory, September 2022

 

Abstract: As early as two years old, children are exposed to gender role stereotypes and biased ideas about the science and mathematics performance of girls and boys. Consequently, girls tend to have low confidence in their STEM skills and low interest in STEM, although their STEM abilities are on par with boys. There are many initiatives to raise girls’ interest in STEM and encourage young women to persevere in a STEM career, but the gender gap in STEM is a complex challenge that requires interventions that consider the age of pupils, gender stereotypes, the role of stakeholders, the national context, and follow-up assessments. Scientix, the community for science education in Europe, organised an online Science Topics Networking Seminar (STNS) in collaboration with the projects GEM and URBANAGE. At the event, more than 20 experts representing various stakeholders in STEM education came together to discuss the challenges and progress of STEM initiatives to reduce the gender gap in STEM fields. This observatory paper outlines the key discussion points raised during the seminar. The main points to consider in the success of initiatives are: (1) a greater involvement of parents and boys in programmes for girls and young women in STEM; (2) a better collaboration with media, industry, science centres and museums; (3) a further integration of the topics of STEM education and gender stereotypes in initial teacher education and professional development; (4) the involvement of non-STEM and ECEC (early childhood education and care) schoolteachers; (5) the use of role models appropriate for the girls’ age and context; (6) better monitoring of the initiatives’ impact; and (7) a better connection between social sciences and STEM.

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Scientix Observatory February 2022 Bilgin, A., Kralj, L., Mossuti, G., Wastiau, P., Gras-Velazquez, A. (2022), Learning lessons to build resilience in times of crisis – a STEM teachers’ view, Scientix Observatory, February 2022

 

Abstract: How well were teachers in general, and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) teachers especially, prepared for distance teaching when schools went into closure during the COVID-19 pandemic? What problems did they face and what strategies did they use to cope with these problems? Once they switched to distance teaching to what extent were teachers able to implement what they intended to do in the classroom? The current survey aimed to explore what were the challenges and strategies of teachers during the pandemic. The survey was run in 25 languages from September 10th 2020 until January 15th 2021. There were 54,081 respondents in total from 49 countries who participated in the survey. Most participants were from Croatia, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Turkey.

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Scientix Observatory November 2021 Bilgin A. & Kralj L. (2021), Learning lessons to build resilience in times of crisis, Scientix Observatory, November 2021

 

Abstract: In March 2020, teachers faced a new challenge –to switch their teaching online. How well were they prepared? What were the most frequent problems they faced and the solutions they employed to solve them? How much were they able to implement online what they intended to do in the classroom? With the support of Scientix and Amgen Foundation, EUN conducted the “Online survey on teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic” that can help address these questions. The current report offers a first analysis of the data. The full Scientix Observatory report was released in February 2022.

 

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sustainability-in-formal-educationFronza V. & Gras-Velazquez, A. (2020), Sustainability in formal Education: ways to integrate it now, Scientix Observatory, December 2020

 

Abstract: Sustainability emerged as a way to address global challenges “without leaving anyone behind” Nevertheless, sustainability is hard to implement. At the individual level, education can help, as recognised at the international level. This paper looks at sustainability for education, and vice versa to decipher why the two benefit from each other. Education fosters literacy, forming the citizens of tomorrow: it can thus support sustainability, promoting a positive understanding of nature among students. Thanks to its interdisciplinary nature, sustainability can foster collaboration among different subjects and offer new practices helping education to prepare students for a complex future. This interplay can exist without intervening in the national curricula, by focussing on student-centred pedagogies, and the role of teachers. Three projects show how, through learning scenarios, massive online open courses and competitions, teachers can support sustainability education. Hence, this paper shows that the integration of sustainability in education is recommendable and achievable.

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sustainability-stem-educationCarroll, S., Grenon, M., Nistor, A., James, V., McGuinness, S., Ben shitrit Haimi, L., Cahill, G., Caner, F., Curtin, S., Dean, K., Fleming, J.V., Garcia Cabellos, G. M., Garcia Terceño, E. M., Germaine, K., Gilleran Stephens, C., Hayes, M., Hihi, M. M., Kirmaci, H., Mangina, E., Moline, F. M. M., Moujdi-Menauge, F., O'Grady, A., Pastor Pina, F., Peleg, R., Prior, S., Santos Antunes, I. M, Siotou, E. (2019), The Sustainability of STEM education projects, Scientix Observatory, October 2019

Abstract: As many STEM education projects rely on short-term funding periods, achieving sustainability can be a challenging aim for project coordinators. Sustainability of a STEM education project can be described as the project’s ability to maintain all or some activity once funding has ended. Scientix, the community for science education in Europe, organised the 15th Science Projects Networking Event (SPNE15) in collaboration with Cell EXPLORERS and the National University of Ireland Galway. At this event, 26 experts in STEM education came together to discuss the sustainability of projects and to propose recommendations for best practice. This observatory report outlines the key discussion points raised by the attending experts and identifies six key aspects relating to sustainability and their related challenges: continuation of activities, sustaining impact, community engagement and collaboration, leadership, planning and evaluation, and finances. The paper concludes by proposing concrete actions that coordinators could undertake to maximise the sustainability of their projects. 

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Teachers perspectiveA. Popovici, O. Istrate, C. Mironov, B. Popovici (2019), Teachers’ Perspective on the Premises and Priorities of STEM Education, Scientix Observatory, September 2019

 

Abstract: STEM education has become one of the main priorities ar European level closely connected to countries global score related to competitivness.The present document reflects the principles and conclusions of the methodology and the research report on Teachers’ Perspective On The Premises And Priorities Of STEM Education, as outputs of the research activity undertaken in Romania between 2017-2019 within the Horizon 2020 Scientix3 project.

 

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STEM in primary educationNistor, A., Angelopoulos, P., Gras-Velazquez, A., Grenon, M., Mc Guinness, S., Mitropoulou, D., Ahmadi, M., Coelho, M. J., Greca, I. M., Kalambokis, E., Korra, A., Lazoudis, A., Lefkos, I., Michetti, T., Njegovanovic, G., Otten, H., Palazi, C.; Tran, H., Tsaknia, T., Tsochatzidis N. (2019), STEM in primary education, Scientix Observatory, August 2019

 

Abstract: There is general agreement among practitioners that the manner by which science is taught at the level of primary schools influences students’ perceptions and attitudes towards science, and their uptake of STEM subjects and careers later on. Primary school teachers can play a central role, but they often feel insufficiently prepared to approach STEM subjects in their classes. Their challenges have been discussed between 20 STEM education stakeholders and 22 primary school teachers participating in the 13th Scientix Projects Networking Event. As a result, three key strategies were proposed to tackle the most challenging aspects of delivering effective STEM teaching in primary classrooms: raising the quality of teacher training, increasing easy access to high quality teaching resources and raising the STEM culture in primary education. This observatory presents a set of actionable recommendations for projects/organisations looking to address these challenges. 

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BritecReportNistor et.al. (2019). Bringing Research into the Classroom – The Citizen Science approach in schools., Scientix Observatory report. April 2019, European Schoolnet, Brussels

 

Abstract: The way science is approached in the classroom can be instrumental in dispelling negative stereotypes about science and scientific research in future generations. The present report looks at the Citizen Science approach as an opportunity to connect schools with the world of research to foster a better command of scientific processes in the young, raise their awareness of current issues faced in certain sectors and geographical regions, and help them make sense of the surrounding world. The purpose of this report is to provide a baseline for understanding the key conditions of successfully implementing citizen science activities in schools. 

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Practices2018Nistor, A., Gras-Velazquez, A., Billon, N. & Mihai, G. (2018). Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education Practices in Europe. Scientix Observatory report., December 2018, European Schoolnet, Brussels

 

Abstract: To complete the findings of the STEM Education Policies report, Scientix launched, with the support of Texas Instruments, the STEM Education Practices Survey, looking to collect information about how STEM teachers throughout Europe organise their teaching practices. The present STEM Education Practices in Europe report draws on the analysis of 3,780 responses (representing over 4,500 classes) to the STEM Education Practices Survey, answered by educators in 38 European countries. Its aim is to provide a grassroots, European-wide perspective on how STEM teachers organise their teaching, in terms of resources and pedagogical approaches used, on the current state of teachers’ professional development and support, and on their opinions and attitudes, particularly in relation to their school environment and their openness to cooperation with STEM industries. 

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Policies2018European Schoolnet (2018). Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education Policies in Europe. Scientix Observatory report. Education Policies in Europe, October 2018, European Schoolnet, Brussels

 

Abstract: This report is based on data gathered from sector experts. A survey was sent to STEM representatives from 14 European countries with questions on the place of STEM in the education system, the reform projects linked to STEM education, the situation regarding the professional capacity-building of STEM teachers and the development of specific pedagogical and learning resources. The structure of the report reflects that of the survey. The data collected was enriched with interviews with industry and university representatives to obtain feedback and points of view from the field. 

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SPNE12 Observatory Paper Gender in STEAM EducationM. Jiménez Iglesias, J. Müller, I. Ruiz-Mallén, E. Kim, E. Cripps, M. Heras, S. Filipecki Martins, M. van Laar, M. Tramonti, A. Valenzuela-Zapata, À. Gras-Velázquez, A. Akue Da Silva, A. Alexopoulos, R. Baldursson, M. Bes, Z. Benameur, Prof. Franz X. Bogner, V. Cala, E. Ceuleers, D. Daras, A. Dochshanov, D., Giampaoli, H. Kırmacı, K. Kolenberg, I. Martev, S. Ronsijn, E. Siotou, M. Tortosa, C. Vizzini. (2018), Gender and innovation in STE(A)M education, Scientix Observatory, June 2018

 

Abstract: Gender aspects continue to play an important role in science education, conditioning study choices or shaping beliefs about one's own capacities and those of others. Performing arts based initiatives are on the forefront of innovative science education approaches and have participatory, dialogic and dialectic qualities to engage students in democratic, inclusive and reflective ways of learning. Both these dimensions can be brought together in order to explore how arts-based science education can contribute to address gender bias and stereotypes in educational and team-collaborative settings. 

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Kearney, C. (2016), Is there a shortage of STEM teachers in Europe?, Scientix Observatory, March 2016

 

Abstract: The 2015 report "Efforts to increase students' interest in pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics studies and careers" by Kearney, C., devoted a short chapter to initiatives identified in 30 countries surveyed across Europe related to the recruitment of STEM teachers. It found that 37% of countries (BG, CH, DK, FR, HU, IL, LV, NL, SK, SE, and UK) report that initiatives are planned or in place to address the issue of recruiting more STEM teachers in schools, particularly at secondary level. Are the countries which reported national initiatives in this area, the only ones facing a shortage of STEM teachers? What are the main reasons behind this shortage and are these reasons similar across countries? Why are other countries not facing a shortage? These are the additional questions that this present article addresses, to complement the first analysis provided in the aforementioned report, and to probe the issue further.  

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Jiménez-Iglesias, M., Nistor, A., Gras-Velázquez, À., Balta, G., Caeiro Rodriguez, M., Caine, M., Cevik, O., Crouch, F., Cunha, C., Farkas, B., Godinho, A., Gomez, S., Idin, S., Jimenez Gonzalez, A., Mayordomo Reales, R., Mihai, G., Munoz Vidal, J., Ozkaynak, H., Rubic, M., Silvestre, M., Tomaz, F. and Valero, A.(2016), Multi-stakeholder partnerships in STEM education, Scientix Observatory, March 2016

 

Abstract: Expertise in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) is becoming an increasingly important part in modern education systems. High quality STEM education is fundamental for the future of our society and, in order to ensure it, several international initiatives have been carried out, in Europe, during the last few years. This article describes a number of stakeholders with a strong presence in the STEM education scene while analysing how strategic cooperation, built in the form of multi-stakeholder partnerships, has the ability to influence the current state of STEM education. The article will also provide with a number of specific examples of multi-stakeholder partnerships that have been running during the last years and will point out on the benefits and weaknesses of this particular approach.

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Nistor, A., Jiménez-Iglesias, M., Gras-Velázquez, À., Berbenni-Rehm, C., Cantó, J., Cunha, C., Daumur, I., Debono, F., Diaz Marcos, J., Gil Docampo, M., Idin, S., Ioan, T., Janes, M., Jochemczyk, W., Kerkhoven, A., Lambrechts, P., Lammer, L., Laporta Grau, M., Lefkos, I., Lepuschitz, W., Muñoz, A., Oledzka, K., Olivotto, C., Ortiz, J., Owen, L., Palavitsinis, N., Perez-Rubio, V. J., Pinzi, V., Rogers, M. W., Roszkowska-Lech, B., Souza, G., Vuk, B. & Wasaznik, A. (2016), Introducing new STEM topics in the curriculum, Scientix Observatory, March 2016

 

Abstract: Fast-advancing societal changes require flexible educational systems, ready to equip students with the skills and competencies needed to respond to them. Projects in science education tend to be quick in picking up these trends and are already producing materials and activities aimed at introducing new scientific thought in the classrooms. But curriculum change in many countries is often a lengthy process, involving complex decision-making mechanisms. This paper draws from the discussions between managers and representatives of over 20 projects in science education, which took place during the 10th Scientix Projects Networking Event and attempts to shed an overview on potential ways of introducing new STEM topics in educational curricula across Europe and beyond.

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Jiménez-Iglesias, M., Nistor, A., Gras-Velázquez, À., Angelov, A., Barciela, P., de Jong, T., Fernandez, A., Korczynska, A., Lozano-Romaguera, C., Loziak, D., Matthews, B., McOwan , P., Olivotto, C., Pascucci, A., Pastor-Pina, F., Reutlinger, M., Slusarczyk, A., and Verdaguer-Codina, J. (2015), Materials created in projects: hands-on, online portals, papers..., Scientix Observatory

 

Abstract: This article provides an overview of the most commonly produced materials in international Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) projects as well as the benefits and difficulties of using them, their purpose and suitability, while providing with several examples. In the first part, a distinction is made between [1] networking platforms, that allow participants to meet, face to face or online to exchange ideas and good practices; [2] training materials, particularly targeted at teacher formation, [3] reports, which provide an insight into the project's development, and [4] portals and repositories, where project resources are being stored for user access. The article moves to evaluate the main strengths and weaknesses of each type of material. The objectives of the article are to determine why projects issue certain materials and to define to which project stakeholder is each type of material best suited.

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Nistor, A., Jiménez-Iglesias, M., Gras-Velázquez, À., Arbues Sanguesa, A., Babicz, Z., Chehlarova, T., Cirovic, V., Cosma, I.M., Evagorou, M., Fischer, N., Gaist, O., Herrero, A., Jovanov, M., Lepre, A., Makris, N., Marino, L., Markovic, M., McNicol, S., Mihai, G., Muciaccia, M., Nanou, A., Niv, G., Palomo, J., Queralt, T., Rovira, J., Scorza, C., Suba, G. F., Toza, S. and Voukloutzi, E. (2015), Involving third parties, organizations and advisers in European projects– The Project Managers’ Position, Scientix Observatory

 

Abstract: This paper provides an overview of the discussions between project managers and organization representatives operating in the field of Science Education on the topic of “involving third parties, organizations and advisors in European projects.” The discussions followed the characteristics of a focus group. The data was collected through detailed minutes taken over the duration of the event. Those present at the event answered four questions: (1) what organization types could provide support to their projects? (2) why would other organizations wish to get involved in their projects, (3) what type of partnerships can be established, and (4) what are the difficulties (and solutions to overcome them) that can be posed by working in partnerships? Following their discussion, it was found that project representatives (1) tend to lean more towards establishing partnerships with public institutions than with private ones, (2) tend to see the “sharing of knowledge” as an important and desirable practice amongst projects and organization, (3) are happy to involve different actors in their projects and, most importantly, (4) think that the benefits of collaboration outweigh the potential difficulties of partnerships.

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Nádori, G. (2016), Can ICT tools enhance learning outcomes?, Scientix Observatory, March 2016

 

Abstract: Whether the use of ICT tools can enhance learning outcomes has been a hotly debated issue for quite some time however, evidence in favor or against of the use of ICT tools is still rare. In our study we compare two groups of students studying Physics. One group used the Webcam Laboratory software in their studies the other did not. According to the test taken by the two groups the use of the ICT tool helped in deepening their understanding in some fields.

 

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Magid, S. , Derek, B.& Angelov, A. (2016), Contribution of teachers networking to the success of European projects, Scientix Observatory, March 2016

 

Abstract: In this study, we checked the views of 70 teachers and interviewed 10 teachers about their views about networking events and their contribution to the success of European projects. Most of the teachers have positive views about networking events and claim that this kind of events contribute not only to their personal interest in teaching STEM subjects, but also to their professional development. Also, teachers mentioned contribution to their personal skills such as self-confidence and communication. However, face to face networking events were considered by teachers as more effective than web-based events. We found that networking events contribute to success of European projects, because teachers who participate in this kind of events fill more involved in the project. They meet colleagues from different European countries, share ideas and practices one with others and build a common platform that is based on the common wish to succeed in a process of a special project with their students.

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Velek, P. & Perez Rubio, V. J. (2013), Sharing Open Educational Resources in Multilanguage Repositories - the Learning Resource Exchange and Scientix, Christian M. Stacke (Ed.), Learning Innovation and Quality: The future of Digital Resources, Proceedings of the European and International Conference LINQ 2013, Rome, Italy, 19-17 May 2013, p. 43-51

 

Abstract: The article presents and compares two ways to stimulate sharing and exchange of online educational resources across different languages and educational settings: the Travel Well criteria for learning materials and the Scientix Translation on demand service. Special attention is paid to the general features of online resources in science and maths education and their practical implications for their successful re-use in various contexts. The conclusion outlines the conditions under which those two approaches yield the expected results.

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Gras-Velázquez, À., Schwarzenbacher, B., Tasiopoulou, E., Debry, M., Bargoin, M., Kudenko, I. & Hernández, M. (2013), The Scientix Observatory: Online Communication Channels with Teachers and Students – Benefits, Problems and Recommendations, Morten F. Paulsen - András Szucs, 2013 (Ed.), The Joy of Learning: Enhancing Learning Experience, Improving Learning Quality, Proceedings of the EDEN Annual Conference 2013, Oslo, Norway, 12-15 June 2013, p. 457-466 (ISBN 978-963-89559-3-7)

 

Abstract: This paper concentrates on the format, benefits and problems encountered in communities of practice (CoP) and chats carried out by four projects: inGenious, Xperimania V, DESIRE and FuturEnergia. While inGenious’ CoP last six weeks, DESIRE’s CoP are only three days long. When looking for answers to specific questions, the DESIRE format works better but requires the information to be completed by shorter events or face to face workshops. When tackling general topics, longer CoP open all the time and facilitated by teachers, ensure the participation of teachers. inGenious and Xperimania V chats have experts replying via audio, while the FuturEnergia answers from the experts provided in writing, are better for schools with older technical equipment. The most efficient chats are carried out with a maximum of two experts, address up to 20 classes (400 pupils) and the chats have associated either an additional activity (like a competition) or the transcript which furthermore serves as an additional teaching resource.

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Scientix, with the support of Texas Instruments and European Schoolnet, is carrying out a study on STEM education policies and STEM teachers’ practices that are featured on this web page.

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