Time for Coding - it is all around us now.
▶Summary
The main focus of the project was to learn about STEAM, coding and astronomy. The main objective was to improve students' and teachers' skills in the STEAM method. The specific objectives were: to...
▶Objectives
The main focus of the project was to learn about STEAM, coding and astronomy. The main objective was to improve students' and teachers' skills in the STEAM method. The specific objectives were: to stimulate an exploratory attitude in children, to inspire a generation of future scientists, researchers, engineers, to introduce them to the world of science, technology, to increase interest in science and technology by experimenting and exploring the fascinating world of science, engineering technology, mathematics in the topic of astronomy and space, to encourage pupils aged 4-11 to take an interest in science, to develop international teacher cooperation by offering free information and resources, exchanging experiences, sharing knowledge with teachers from partner schools and other schools interested in modern education, improving knowledge and skills in innovative teaching methods, enriching the educational offer of schools with STEAM and coding activities and updating school curricula with STEAM content, promoting the STEAM concept in the school, local and regional environment.
▶Activities
The project activities involved students and teachers. Three mobilities were organised, each for 5 teachers from each partner school. The themes of the mobilities were: SKY ATLAS, SPACE CAMP and SCIENCE AND ASTRONOMY. The following activities were implemented in the schools: workshops and activities for children combining astronomy topics with mathematics, engineering, technology, science and art, STEAM training for teachers, workshops for parents, extra-curricular activities within AstroSTEAM clubs, Innovation Fair, STEAM Career and Activity Day, Teacher experience exchange platform - STEAM Teachers' Channel - Teachers' creative practice Group The project's activities were reflected in the teachers' experience in combining knowledge and skills. The teachers' educational experience in the AstroSTEAM topic was implemented in schools during classes and various activities. The STEAM method and astronomy topics emerged as a compulsory teaching element and were integrated into the curriculum. Workshops and activities for children related to science and STEAM fields were organised in schools, as well as science events aimed not only at pupils, but also at their parents and local residents.
▶Impact
Project website was created: www.time-for-coding-astronomy.com, eTwinning project https://school-education.ec.europa.eu/pl/etwinning/projects/astro-stem-steam-time-coding-it-all-around-us-now/twinspace, a product catalogue https://www.emaze.com/@ALLWWIRQC/virtual-school and a platform for teachers- the STEAM teachers' group www.facebook.com/groups/1260797731538299/. Teachers from other schools have free access to STEAM and astronomy knowledge and materials. AstroSTEAM clubs attended by 15 to 30 children aged 4-11 in each school. Science clubs have been integrated into the educational offer. Pupils deepened their knowledge and skills in science, became interested in doing experiments, observations and construction. Innovation Fairs and STEAM Career and Activity Days reached around 800 people. Children learned about technical and research professions, their knowledge of maths, technology, physics, astronomy and engineering increased. They conducted experiments and demonstrations, presented results of observations and experiments, mock-ups, constructions and artwork. Invited guests: parents, pupils and teachers from other schools and local residents learnt about the STEAM working method and increased their astronomical knowledge.