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ICSE Science Factory

Welcome to the ICSE Science Factory project!

Our new Open Schooling project on the topics of sustainability, health and digitalization has started!

Welcome to the ICSE Science Factory project, a groundbreaking initiative funded by the European Union. Our mission is to address the pressing need for more scientists and scientifically literate citizens within the EU. We achieve this through a unique blend of strategies, each offering a different perspective on the issue, thereby maximizing our impact.

To implement this project, our dedicated consortium of 15 high-capacity cross-sectoral expert teams from five European countries have come together, including higher education institutions, science education researchers, enterprises, non-formal education providers, all supported by schools, enterprises, and community institutions.

The project’s innovative approach aims to increase the number of scientists and the level of scientific knowledge within communities. This is achieved by strengthening the partnerships through local conventions, where research findings are shared and applied, and local public fairs to integrate communities into the scientific learning process.

At the heart of our project is the goal to enhance science education for all citizens. Our open schooling activities, for example, are a key part of our educational concept. With them, we create new partnerships in local communities, such as between teachers, students, scientists, researchers, innovators, and professionals in enterprises. These partnerships immerse learners in real-life problem-solving situations within education, the workplace, and other learning environments, contributing to a lifelong learning continuum and sparking interest in science studies and careers, particularly among women.

ICSE Factory Project News

What is Open Schooling?

Collaborations between Students and the Community

The ICSE Science Factory is centered around three key objectives:

  1. Providing collaborative science learning opportunities for all citizens on a local level that demonstrate the relevance of science for real-life challenges and contribute to a lifelong learning continuum.
  2. Raising the interest in science studies and science careers among young people, with a particular focus on girls and women.
  3. Fostering networking and the sharing and applying of research findings amongst various stakeholders to create, circulate, and use science for societal benefit.
Comic strip, explaining what open schooling can look like.

Comic by Vaidotas Kinčius and Egle Jasute, Vilnius University

Key Objective 1:

Providing collaborative science learning opportunities for all citizens on a local level that demonstrate the relevance of science for real-life challenges and contribute to a lifelong learning continuum.

What is Open Schooling all about?

In running Lighthouse activities and supported open schooling activities we provide collaborative science learning opportunities for all citizens at a local level.

We want to open up schools and network them with external  partners, work together with families and interested citizens on an equal footing and work on socially relevant topics of sustainability, health and digitalization to eventually find concrete solutions to real-life problems at school, in our own city or region. In open schooling projects, students and their teachers collaborate with members of the community: Families, science education providers, citizens, businesses, etc.

How can this work?

Over the next three years, ICSE will be working with partner schools and experts from science, companies and non-formal education providers. Together our Science Factory team will create regional networks and design various innovative and creative hands-on activities together.

Schools are encouraged to run these activities with the support of mentors from local partnerships, including enterprises or community members versed in science. These mentors use their expertise to guide teachers, students, and external participants through their open schooling projects.

The aim of these projects is for students and citizens to work together scientifically in order to develop regionally feasible solution approaches. The acquired knowledge will then be delivered to the community. The sharing of results can be accomplished via short video clips, pictures, posters, flyers, newspaper articles, etc.

Open Schooling Projects (tbc)

Lighthouse Activities
Illuminate, Educate, Innovate!

What Can You Expect?

Join us as we explore and address real-world issues through our engaging lighthouse activities. Designed for all age groups, these activities dive into global challenges, from seeing how climate change affects our local forests to understanding the latest in health and tech innovations.

  • Walk through local forests to see firsthand the effects of climate change, examining trees’ biological properties and the fascinating science of water transportation within them.
  • Learn about today’s important questions, like “How does a new vaccine work in our bodies?”, giving everyone a peek into cutting-edge science.
  • With both online and in-person options, everyone can join in, no matter what. And the best part? It’s absolutely free during the project duration!

Bringing Science Closer to Everyone

With the help of our community partners, experts in hands-on learning, these activities make science fun and approachable. Their unique style encourages everyone, even those who might think science isn’t for them, to give it a try. It’s a fresh twist that adds to the more structured ways we usually learn from schools or businesses, reaching out to new groups of people.

Who’s It For?

Everyone, from families to senior citizens! And there’s more – we also inspire schools to take up similar projects. Imagine a school community coming together to learn about smart shopping, and later sharing tips with neighbors. Or getting creative with old clothes, turning them into art pieces or even school gear. There’s so much to discover!

A Message to the European Union

Our lighthouse activities aim to make learning lifelong and fun for all. They’re not just events, but powerful moments that boost knowledge and togetherness. We’re working to make science a part of our daily lives, in our communities, and across Europe. Come and join us in this exciting journey!

Lighthouse Activities (tbc)

ICSE Science Factory Events

Connecting partners across Europe

Key Objective 2:

Raising the interest in science studies and science careers among young people.

Shaping Futures: Discover, Discuss, and Decide with Interactive Talks!

Curious about a career in science? Join our interactive career talks! Designed to spark interest in scientific studies and professions, these sessions cater especially to young individuals at pivotal career-choice moments. We place special emphasis on celebrating and promoting women both as attendees and as role models.

Here’s What to Expect:

  • Listen to dynamic science researchers and professionals from diverse sectors as they share their career journeys. They come from various backgrounds, ages, and genders.
  • Learn about the real-world significance of these careers, the perks and challenges, and delve into gender dynamics in the field.
  • Engage in open discussions! Ask questions, share views, and break down stereotypes with our expert speakers.

Why These Talks Matter:

The power of representation can’t be overstated. By showcasing a wide range of careers and role models, we aim to shatter stereotypes, especially around gender biases in science. Collaborating with local partners from various work fields ensures our talks resonate with diverse interests.

Overcoming Challenges:

Attracting a diverse youth audience is key. But even as we break down barriers at our events, young attendees might still face stereotypical views elsewhere, like at home or among friends. We’re aware of this and have a robust mentoring system to guide them.

Join Us!

The ICSE Science Factory is set to host 10 engaging career talks in each participating country – that’s 50 insightful sessions! And, keeping in mind current circumstances, we’re prepared to take the experience online.

Embark on this enlightening journey with us and explore the vast, vibrant world of science careers. Discover, discuss, and be inspired!

Key Objective 3:

Fostering networking and the sharing and applying of research findings amongst various stakeholders to create, circulate, and use science for societal benefit.

Local Partnership Conventions: Bridging Minds, Sharing Innovations

Purpose:

Join us in our triennial conventions organized across our five partner countries, where local partners converge to explore, exchange, and evolve. A platform where science technology research gets a new dimension!

Who’s on Board?

  • Higher Education Institutions
  • Non-formal education providers
  • Community institutions
  • Enterprises
  • Schools

Collaborative Dialogues:

The conventions are designed as a fluid platform, encouraging spontaneous exchange across partnerships. While the agenda remains flexible, allowing partners to bring their pressing concerns to the forefront, potential discussion topics include:

  1. Challenges in Research Sharing: Addressing the hurdles in disseminating research findings effectively.
  2. Day-to-Day Issues: Delving into common challenges like recruitment difficulties for enterprises or communication barriers faced by researchers.
  3. Promoting Gender Equality in Science: Sharing best practices and brainstorming on actionable solutions.
  4. Mentoring & Consultation: Strengthening the bonds within the partnership community.
  5. Building Trust in Science & Research: Discussing ways to bolster public confidence in science and research findings, especially on pressing issues like climate change’s impact on forests.

Join the Conversation: Be a part of these conventions and contribute to the ever-evolving dialogue on science, research, and community collaboration.

Let’s shape the future together!

Local Public Fairs: Connecting Science and Community

Our Local Public Fairs are scheduled to take place in the 2nd and 3rd year of the ICSE Science Factory project, following the launch of our primary initiatives.

Main Attractions:

  • Student Initiatives: Schools will showcase their unique solutions to contemporary challenges, stemming from their open schooling projects.
  • Enterprise Spotlights: Different businesses will showcase their prominent figures in the realm of science, shedding light on a variety of science-centric careers.

Engagement Opportunities:

  • Open Panel Sessions: We will host interactive discussions on the evolving role of science in our society and other pressing issues.
  • Focused Networking: Attendees will have the chance to mingle, offering a platform for members of our partnership and the broader community to connect.
  • Community Feedback: We will actively seek out participant perspectives on crucial subjects such as climate change, health innovations, and the digital revolution.

Year One Special: Our first fair will primarily serve as an introduction to our project and its overarching goals, offering attendees a sneak peek into sample activities and setting the stage for future interactions.

Come and be a part of this enriching experience, where science meets society, fostering dialogue and mutual growth.

Community of Practice

Fostering Collaborative Networking Through Communities of Practice

Our main focus is to amplify the networking, sharing, and practical application of research findings amongst various stakeholders and community members. This is to ensure a harmonious exchange of ideas and expertise where every member is considered an equal partner. Leveraging the Community of Practice (CoP) model, we intend to nurture this networking initiative, aiming to forge new partnerships and strengthen existing ones.

Key Components of Our CoP

  1. Shared Identity and Contribution: Our CoP is more than just a network; it’s a collective of motivated individuals actively participating and shaping a shared identity through various practices. This includes our lighthouse initiatives, supported open schooling activities, interactive career talks, and local fairs.
  2. Common Knowledge Domain: We revolve around a mutual understanding and passion for science and its societal implications. This common ground motivates and guides our member’s active participation and learning.
  3. Unified Practices: Our CoP’s strength lies in our shared activities that promote lifelong learning, real-world problem-solving, and sharing of research findings and community solutions.
  4. Learning and Development: At its core, our CoP encourages members to learn from each other. This mutual growth is fostered by sharing experiences and information, especially during our conventions and fairs.
  5. Positive Atmosphere and Conduct: Our CoP thrives on a culture of openness, emphasizing open science, nurturing partnerships, advocating for gender equality, and addressing global challenges such as health, digital transformation, and environmental sustainability.
  6. Inclusive and Expansive Exchange: While our CoP values its internal reservoir of knowledge, we believe in the benefits of looking beyond our immediate community. This openness is evident in our local fairs and the European project conferences.
  7. Diverse Participation Levels: We recognize and value the different levels of involvement.

For our local partnerships within the CoP framework to truly thrive, we commit to maintaining a welcoming, transparent, and constructive work atmosphere. Regular checks and evaluations of our modus operandi ensure that we continually meet the needs of every member.

Taking CoP Beyond Borders: In our endeavor to embed CoP practices across Europe, we have curated two distinct event types catering to varied target groups, all designed to facilitate enhanced networking and knowledge dissemination.

Join us in this collaborative journey where every member, every insight, and every shared experience contributes to a larger tapestry of collective growth and innovation.

Resources

In the next months you can find here some ressources, if you are interested in applying open schooling.  You will also find supporting information, like a manual or the pedagogical guidelines. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

About the ICSE Science Factory

Open Schooling and Citizen Science

The ICSE Science Factory project, funded by the European Union, is a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing the shortfall of scientists and citizens versed in science within the European Union. The project leverages a unique combination of measures, each addressing the issue from a different perspective, thereby maximizing its impact.

The project is characterized by the formation of high-capacity cross-sectoral partnerships in five different partner countries: Germany, Portugal, Croatia, Cyprus, Turkey. These partnerships consist of science researchers, science education researchers, and non-formal education providers, supported by schools, enterprises, and community institutions. The project’s innovative approach aims to increase the number of scientists and the level of scientific knowledge within communities. This is achieved by strengthening the partnerships through local conventions, where research findings are shared and applied, and local public fairs to integrate communities into the scientific learning process.

The project’s overall aim is to foster improved science education for all citizens by creating new partnerships in local communities, such as between teachers, students, scientists, researchers, innovators, and professionals in enterprises. These partnerships engage learners in real-life problem-solving situations within education, the workplace, and other learning environments, contributing to a lifelong learning continuum and raising interest in science studies and careers, particularly among women.

Objectives: Addressing the shortfall of scientists and citizens versed in science within the European Union

The ICSE Science Factory project focuses on three key objectives:

  1. Providing collaborative science learning opportunities for all citizens on a local level that demonstrate the relevance of science for real-life challenges and contribute to a lifelong learning continuum.
  2. Raising the interest in science studies and science careers among young people, with a particular focus on girls and women.
  3. Fostering networking and the sharing and applying of research findings amongst various stakeholders to create, circulate, and use science for societal benefit.

The ICSE Science Factory project is a unique initiative that combines a unified European vision with a deep understanding of local community needs. It draws upon the collective expertise of a diverse consortium, creating activities that are both globally informed and locally relevant. The project’s focus areas include sustainability, digitalisation, and health – all critical, socially relevant issues. By addressing these real-world challenges, the project demonstrates the practical importance of science, making it accessible and engaging for all citizens.

Through different project formats, like workshops, open schooling projects, interactive career talks, conventions, fairs and mentoring, the ICSE Science Factory project aims to enhance scientific literacy and stimulate interest in science studies and careers. It’s not just about teaching science, but about showing how science can be used to understand and solve the problems we face in our daily lives.

The open schooling activities, for example, are a key part of the project’s educational concept, with schools being encouraged to run these activities with the support of mentors from local partnerships, including enterprises or community members versed in science. These mentors use their expertise to guide teachers, students, and external participants through their open schooling projects.

The project’s expected results are significant and are expected to contribute substantially to tackling the identified problems and needs in several ways:

  1. Increasing Scientific Literacy and Interest: By providing collaborative science learning opportunities for all citizens on a local level, the project aims to show the relevance of science for real-life challenges and add to a lifelong learning continuum. This approach is expected to increase scientific literacy among citizens and foster a greater interest in science studies and careers.

 

  1. Promoting Science Careers: The project aims to raise the interest in science studies and science careers among young people, with a particular focus on girls and women. By organizing interactive career talks where role models present their science careers, the project hopes to inspire more young people to consider a career in science.

 

  1. Fostering Networking and Collaboration: The project seeks to foster networking and the sharing and applying of research findings amongst teachers, researchers, and professionals across different enterprises as well as local communities. This is expected to lead to the creation of new partnerships that can contribute to improved science education and the use of scientific knowledge for societal benefit.

 

  1. Addressing Real-Life Problems: The project’s focus on real-life problem-solving and challenge-driven innovation processes is expected to help participants understand the relevance of science in addressing societal challenges. This approach not only enhances learning but also contributes to the development of solutions to real-world problems.

 

The ICSE Science Factory project is expected to make a significant contribution to science education and the promotion of science as a valuable tool for societal problem-solving. The project’s expected impacts are substantial, contributing to the EU’s efforts to combat a shortfall of scientists and citizens versed in science, and fostering a lifelong learning continuum for all citizens. The project’s focus on community involvement and real-life problem-solving also ensures that scientific knowledge is not just created and circulated, but also used for the benefit of society. This approach is particularly relevant in the context of the previous pandemic, which has underscored the importance of scientific literacy and the role of science in addressing societal challenges.

 

Activities

ICSE Science Factory initiates activities on a threefold geographical structure:

Community: In all 5 countries of the consortium (Germany, Croatia, Cyprus, Portugal and Turkey), regional open schooling projects are initiated within communities (schools as hubs).

Regional level: At the regional/national level in our partner countries, all Open Schooling communities from one region are interlaced. This is achieved through regional conventions and fairs, where experiences and examples of successful “Open Schooling” are shared. ICSE Science Factory fairs in each region maximise impact and strengthen regional efficacy.

European level: ICSE Science Factory  ‘creates the bigger picture’ by establishing Communities of Practice at the European level. A final ICSE Science Conference connects all projects activities across Europe to a vibrant science-learning network that opens up for further countries and communities.

ICSE Science Factory Consortium

CROATIA

The Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb

The Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb is one of the leading scientific institutions in Croatia. It consists of 7 departments and also comprises a botanical garden, a seismographic service, and a mareographic station. It employs around 500 scientists and lectures, and leads or participates in about 150 scientific and professional projects. Scientific research is carried out within mathematics and natural sciences, interdisciplinary areas of science and educational research, accounting for about 20% of the total scientific production of the University of Zagreb. Faculty organizes many workshops and conferences with an aim to improve the collaboration between international and local scientists, as well as to increase the popularization of science.

Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER), University of Zagreb

The Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) is the largest technical faculty and a leading educational and research institution in the fields of electrical engineering, computing, and information and communication technology in the Republic of Croatia. The current research and teaching staff consist of 198 professors and 338 teaching and research assistants, as well as about 3500 undergraduate and graduate students and 390 postgraduate students. FER is involved in around 200 projects funded by the EU or at a national level. In the last 5 years, FER has participated in many projects financed by different funding programs: HORIZON 2020 (49 projects), HORIZON EUROPE (11 projects), BILATERAL (50 projects), COST ACTIONS (35 projects), ERASMUS+ (23 projects), INTERREG, European Regional Development Fund, European Social Fund, Croatian Science Foundation (180 projects) and other.

Croatian Mathematical Society

The Croatian Mathematical Society is a professional association of mathematicians in the Republic of Croatia whose goal is the improvement and promotion of mathematical science, the teaching of mathematics at all levels, the application of mathematics in other disciplines, as well as the improvement of the social position of mathematicians as a whole. Through 5 sections, youth and associations that are collective members, the Croatian Mathematical Society gathers scientists, primary and secondary school teachers, teachers of higher education institutions, employees of various companies, students and pupils. Through its activities, the Croatian Mathematical Society works to ensure that Croatia is included in the latest trends in mathematical sciences.

CYPRUS

GERMANY

ICSE, University of Education Freiburg

The University of Education Freiburg is the hub for teacher education and educational science in southwestern Germany. It is represented by the highly qualified team of the International Centre for STEM Education (ICSE) and holds a key role in managing the ICSE Science Factory. The innovative and successful approach to reform day-to-day schooling through cutting-edge research has shone a spotlight on ICSE and therefore the ICSE Science Factory, creating a national and international network of the industry- and business partners in the endeavor. The cooperation of these influential partners with Higher Education Institutions and schools enables the ICSE Science Factory to fulfill its full potential in integrating communal problem-solving approaches in school curricula.

Schülerforschungszentrum Südwürttemberg (SFZ) e.V.

With an excellent STEM offer, we want to inspire young people and show them perspectives for the future. The Schülerforschungszentrum (SFZ) Südwürttemberg e.V. continues where school inevitably has to stop. Children and young people whose interest in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology (STEM subjects) goes beyond regular school material can research, develop, and invent at the “SFZ” in their free time – just as others learn a musical instrument or practice any kind of sport. They present their research results at approximately 40 national and international competitions and trade fairs. Around 740 students from all types of schools conduct research at nine “SFZ” locations, supervised by approximately 60 teachers, 50 volunteers, and a few students. The mission of the non-profit association is to be a research center for all students out of the region of South Württemberg, where young STEM talents are encouraged and inspired at a high level.  In addition, the “SFZ” is a recognized institution where teachers develop high-quality teaching and learning materials for the STEM sector.

PORTUGAL

High Institute of Engineering of Lisbon (ISEL)

The High Institute of Engineering of Lisbon (ISEL) is one of the oldest Portuguese engineering schools, established in 1852. ISEL fosters to provide academic and professional training comprising sound scientific and innovative content with a professional focus to meet both the needs of the labor market and the expectations of employability of the graduates. With over 4,000 students, the institute offers 22 undergraduate and master’s engineering programs, postgraduate courses, and an array of lifelong learning programs for professionals in the field. ISEL holds a pivotal position in Portugal’s scientific and technological research domain, engaging in numerous national and international research projects, financed through competitive grants and industry support.

TURKEY

HACETTEPE UNIVERSITY

Hacettepe University is one of the largest universities in Turkey. The Faculty of Education bundles highly qualified staff, international cooperation, openness, extensive STEM experience, and a broad network of different (STEM) stakeholders, all whilst being one of the founding members of ICSE. With the implementation of the new Turkish Science Curriculum, the university was able to establish a system where the different achievement levels and the social and emotional skills of students are considered whilst teaching. In the context of the ICSE Science Factory, Hacettepe University oversees the communication, dissemination, and exploitation of all activities, due to a high level of expertise and success in this area.

Teachers First Foundation (ÖÖV)

Teachers First Foundation (ÖÖV) is a dynamic non-profit organization dedicated to prioritizing and elevating the well-being of educators. ÖÖV’s core mission revolves around providing targeted teacher trainings and fostering a robust network for teachers and educational leaders, both within Turkey and internationally. In line with its commitment to well-rounded professional development, ÖÖV focuses on three key areas within the Euro-framework: digital transformation, inclusivity, and sustainability. They empower teachers to effectively integrate digital tools, advocate for inclusive education, and cultivate a self-sustaining educational model that transcends generations. ÖÖV’s impact extends across various age groups, from early childhood educators to school administrators, education professionals, and ultimately, students of all ages. Their visionary approach emphasizes the transformation of teachers not only as educators but as individuals, shaping the future of education through empowerment, collaboration, and well-being. Join ÖÖV in its mission to promote teacher well-being, foster meaningful connections, and drive innovation in education both locally and globally.

Evaluation

The evaluation concept of the ICSE Factory project is designed to see to what extent the project has reached its objectives: to foster improved science education for all citizens by creating new partnerships in local communities, such as between teachers, students, scientists, researchers, innovators, and professionals in enterprises.

The project evaluation has a twofold purpose: on one hand it is intended to measure the project’s short-term impact in terms of the promotion of science literacy, perceived relevance and positive attitudes towards science and scientific careers, as well as increased sustainability awareness and individual capacity to act on environmental issues. On the other hand, it should provide a collection of multiple case studies from five European countries, illustrating how open schooling activities may be articulated to adapt to different regional contexts, as well as barriers and supportive aspects for their successful and productive implementation.

Due to the scope and ambition of the evaluation concept, a mix methods approach is used, combining quantitative and qualitative methods. To this end, specific questionnaires were developed for the main target groups (students, teachers, scientists, parents, people from the industry) and a template for regional case studies focusing on the key concept behind the ICSE Factory project: the development of open schooling activities as means to connect school and communities and to provide more authentic, relevant and meaningful STEM education.

Key Data

Program: Horizon Europe

Topic: HORIZON-WIDERA-2022-ERA-01-70 – Open schooling for science education and a learning continuum for all

Type of Action: Horizon CSA (Coordination and support actions)

Duration: 38 months (January 2023 – February 2026)

Project Number: 101093387

Do you want to start your own SCP?

Contact your national MOST Advisor!

Lucas Weinberg

University of Innsbruck, Austria

Svatava Janouskova

Charles University

Czech Republic

Sabrina Deck

ICSE at University of Education Freiburg

Germany

Michiel Doorman

Utrecht University

Netherlands

Marytė Skakauskienė

National Education Agency

Lithuania

Marie-Ana Jones

Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Norway

Paul Pace

Malta

Ana Maria Abril

Universidad de Jaén

Spain

Jesper Boesen

Jönköping University

Sweden

Metin Sardag

Hacettepe University

Turkey

THE INTERNATIONAL MOST OFFICE

If you did not find an advisor for your country, please feel free to contact the MOST Project Office. We look forward to hearing from you!

 

Sabine Mickler

ICSE at University of Education Freiburg

MOST Coordinator / Project Office

The creation of these resources has been funded with the support of the Horizon Europe programme of the European Union under grant no. 101093387. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

CC-BY-NC-SA 4.0 license is granted for all our materials. Please feel free to use and adapt them for non-commercial purposes. Make sure to give attribution to the original materials as well as for the adapted ones. Find explicit terms of use for CC-BY-NC-SA 4.0 at: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/deed.en

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