A Look Back at the ICSE Science Factory Network Meeting
by Elena Schäfer & Rahel Brugger
On June 26, 2025, the International Centre for STEM Education (ICSE) at the University of Education Freiburg welcomed teachers, researchers, and students to the third ICSE Science Factory Convention, united under the theme “Opening Up Schools, Shaping the Future.” The event provided an inspiring platform to explore Open Schooling, innovation in STEM education, and transdisciplinary collaboration.
Kicking off the afternoon was a compelling keynote by Prof. Dr. Thomas Seifert from the University of Freiburg, who offered insights into how climate change is reshaping forest ecosystems and their capacity to meet human needs. This laid the foundation for dynamic exchanges between research and practice, science and societal issues – reflecting the very essence of the ICSE Factory project’s unique nature.
One of the standout moments of the event was the showcase of student-driven Open Schooling projects from Rotteck-Gymnasium Freiburg, centered on environmental challenges, mathematics and 3D printing. Two teachers and two of their students shared their experiences in the ICSE Factory activities with great enthusiasm. Complementing these were two standout formats from the ICSE Factory project: “Designing Jigsaw Lamps” by Dr. Rahel Brugger and “Molecular Cuisine – From Michelin-Star Restaurant to Nursing Home” by Dr. Peter Steuerer, showcasing the creativity and interdisciplinary spirit of the projects’ activities.
A lively panel discussion addressed the question, “Opening Schools – But How?” diving into the opportunities and challenges of building school-community partnerships. Participants also explored European teacher mobility with input from Anna Bölke and Dr. Clara Fritz, highlighting new avenues for collaboration and professional exchange.
The event concluded with a World Café, where molecular delicacies spiced up in-depth discussions on key themes like mobility, partnerships with the University of Freiburg, and the future of Open Schooling. The outcome? New connections, shared visions, and a strong sense of momentum for rethinking education!
