Developing an Engaging Science Classroom
The aim of the CREATIONS Project is to introduce innovative educational methods into the teaching of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). These new methods are based on inquiry-based learning and using elements of artistic creation. This type of approach provides opportunities for students to understand science through active and creative engagement and collaboration.
Project Information
Source of Funding: Horizon 2020 European Commission Programme
Project Duration: 10/2015 – 09/2017
Project Website: creations-project.eu
Contact: Dobrivoje Lale Erić dleric@cpn.rs
Coordinator
University of Bayreuth, Germany
Partners
Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Germany
European Organization for Nuclear Research – CERN, Switzerland
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
Ellinogermaniki Agogi, Greece
Institute of Accelerating Systems and Applications, Greece
University of Exeter, Great Britain
Science &Technology Facilities Council, Great Britain
University of Birmingham, Great Britain
Stord Haugesund University College, Norway
University of Helsinki, Finland
University of Malta, Malta
The Big Van Theory, Spain
Stockholm House of Science, Sweden
European Physical Society, France
Center for the Promotion of Science, Serbia
Project Description
Current educational policies and curricula which reduce teaching methods to a superficial and isolated transfer of information are narrowing the possibility of encouraging curiosity and development of critical thinking in students, especially when it comes to the so-called STEM areas. CREATIONS pedagogical framework is based on inquiry-based learning and using elements of theatre, dance, photography, and other types of creative expression, it provides students and teachers with the opportunity to experiment with different types of places, activities and personal identities while researching science. The long-term goal of this project is to make science appealing to as many students as possible and to inspire them to choose it as their career.
The CREATIONS Pedagogical Framework was developed in the initial phase of the project. This framework serves as a guideline for the selection of examples of good practice of innovative and creative approaches to teaching and their subsequent adaptation into CREATIONS “Demonstrators” – particular scenarios which can be used in the classroom. The project activities which will take place in the last phase include the dissemination and implementation of the CREATIONS Pedagogical Framework and Demonstrators through numerous training courses for teachers, workshops, summer schools, national and international competitions for students and teachers, exhibits, theatre performances and other activities in 11 European countries including Serbia.
The Role of CPN
CPN is participating in the communication activities of the project, and it is responsible for designing the website, pamphlets and other promotional materials.
Apart from that, CPN is organising the complete implementation of the project in Serbia, during which a large number of workshops and training courses for teachers in Serbia will be held. The main objective of these events is to present the CREATIONS model and demonstrate its application in working with students.