Green STEM Consortium Explores Sustainable Education Pathways at Ljubljana Kick-off meeting

On 20th September 2023, within the Project No. – 2022-1-BG01-KA220-HED-000088567 “Green STEM model for teachers education”, abbreviated: “GREEN STEM” our consortium convened at the Faculty of Education, University of Ljubljana, to advance the cause of sustainable education through an immersive conference on STEM and STEAM education models.

The focal point of the meeting was the presentation of Work Package 2 (WP2), titled “TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH CO-CREATION IN STEAM EDUCATION,” where the project’s partners showcased their analysis of the state-of-the-art in Green STEM practices. The Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology also hosted a consortium meeting, focusing on Work Package 3 (WP3), which emphasized the development of student courses and training models for educators.

Key Highlights:

  • Multi-Country Analysis: Representatives from diverse educational institutions, including:
    • University of Ljubljana, Slovenia: Assoc. Prof. Bostjan Genorio, PhD; Prof. Andreja Žgajnar Gotvajn, PhD; Assoc. Prof. Danijela Makovec Radovan, PhD; Prof. Vesna Ferk Savec, PhD; Res. Assist. Ema Meden; Assist. Prof. Katarina Mlinarec.
    • Trakya University, Edirne, Turkey: Assist. Prof. Sertaç Arabacıoğlu, PhD.
    • South-West University “Neofit Rilski”, Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria: Assist. Prof. Damyana Grancharova, PhD; Assoc. Prof. Maya Chochkova, PhD.

Each representative provided a comprehensive overview, allotted a maximum of 20 minutes, highlighting the Green STEM landscape in their respective nations.

  • Engaging Discussions: The interactive sessions witnessed active participation from elementary, high school, and university teachers. These discussions, characterized by their productivity, resembled workshops, fostering collaborative engagement among participants.
  • Future Roadmap: The consortium laid out its plans for the future, with a particular focus on Work Package 3 (WP3). Responsibilities were allocated among the consortium members, with a commitment to developing student courses on alternative and renewable energy sources. Additionally, a specialized Green STEM training model aimed at in-service teachers seeking further qualifications was outlined.

Local Contact and Further Information: Bostjan Genorio, serving as the local contact for the conference, ensured smooth coordination. The full conference schedule and detailed event information can be accessed here.

The Green STEM Consortium continues to pave the way for sustainable education, fostering collaboration and innovation among educators across borders. This gathering marks a significant step forward in shaping a more environmentally conscious and STEM-driven educational landscape.

Disclaimer:  This material is published with the financial support of the European Union through the Erasmus+ programme. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

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