Hosted by , contributed by Kyriaki_Vakkou on 15 September 2023
The project introduced innovative technologies related to robotics and artificial intelligence to schools located in rural areas. It helps children learn how engineers work and think, delegate tasks and realize them. The biggest challenge was the lack of teachers' competence to independently present students with new technologies, which limited students' opportunities and their preparation for the modern digital world. Hence, the school decided to provide teachers with the opportunity for professional training and the development of new competencies. Through various trainings, workshops and mentoring support, teachers acquired the skills and knowledge necessary for the efficient integration of robotics and artificial intelligence to the schools.
Education and professional trainings for teachers were organized with the aim of acquiring knowledge about robotics, artificial intelligence and their application in an educational context. Teachers participated in workshops and trainings that introduced them to basic concepts, tools and educational methods. During the training, they were assigned mentors with experience in these fields. Mentors provided individual support to teachers, shared their knowledge and experience, and helped plan and implement teaching activities that included innovative technologies.
The training also included the collaboration with technology companies and industry experts to provide teachers with access to advanced technology tools and resources. This collaboration helped the school to overcome the lack of access to advanced technology tools and resources and it enabled teachers to gain practical experiences and examples of good practice from the real world and apply them in their teaching. Involved stakeholders, such as teachers, mentors, industry experts and students, actively participated in courses, workshops, mentoring and implementation of project activities. Their cooperation, sharing of knowledge and experience, and support of unity were key to successfully overcoming the main challenge. Students actively participated in the project, applying their knowledge and skills in robotics and artificial intelligence in hands-on activities.
The main change that took place was an improvement in the quality of teaching and learning outcomes. Through these initiatives and the cooperation of all stakeholders, teachers have become more qualified to use innovative technologies in teaching. Teachers became able to integrate innovative technologies into their lesson plans and activities, which enabled more interactive and engaged student learning. They gained confidence in their digital competences and capabilities, which made it possible to better prepare students for the modern digital world. The teaching practice became more focused on active learning, collaboration and application of knowledge in real situations.
Through these activities, students had the opportunity to apply their knowledge of robotics and artificial intelligence, develop problem-solving and teamwork skills, and build confidence in using new technologies. Interactive and practical activities were incorporated in the lessons, which encouraged students' creativity, cooperation and problem solving. Students had the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real situations and develop skills that are in demand on the labour market. Also, the introduction of new technologies has stimulated students' interest in STEM fields.
School management has also experienced changes, as teachers have become leaders in the implementation of innovative technologies. The aim is to make the school a center of excellence for the STEM field and attract the attention of the local community and other schools. The impact on the local community is positive because the project encourages cooperation between the school, industry and local organizations, and creates opportunities for future development and employment in the STEM field.
Through the cooperation of all stakeholders, a synergy was achieved that enabled the successful implementation of the project and the achievement of positive results. Teachers had support and mentoring in the introduction of new technologies, and students had the opportunity to interactively learn and apply knowledge.
STEMI PLATFORM (requires paid license) - it contains all the materials (articles, videos, lessons, achievement checks) used for learning and teaching while working on the project
STEMI EDUCATION: https://stemi.education
• Schools of the Future: https://stemi.education/schools-of-the-future/
• Robotics program: https://stemi.education/programs/robotics/
• Artificial intelligence program: https://stemi.education/programs/artificial-intelligence/
Teams (used for student-teacher communication): https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/
Already implemented by the following schools
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