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European Innovative Teaching Award
Project

Think Inside the Box! A Methodological STEAM Toolkit for Schools

School/Coordinator: Robotikos mokykla (School of Robotics)

Topic(s) addressed

  • Sustainability (using available materials and reusing them after)

  • Aesthetics (creating solutions that are beyond functionality)

  • Inclusion (involving pupils with special needs)

Target groups

  • More than 1200 pupils from grades 5 to 12 in 3 countries

  • 100 teachers in 3 countries

Methodologies

  • Methods used: PBL, Design Thinking, Engineering, learning-by-doing and IBSE - core elements of STEAM education. 

  • Using knowledge of programming, maths, physics, electronics, engineering, etc.

  • Using creativity and critical thinking, teamwork and presentation skills

  • Non-formal learning approach– alternative project evaluation (no marks) 

  • emphasis was on creative solutions, cooperation and reflection.

  • Supporting role of the teachers (not leading)

  • The inclusion of students with special needs

Environments

  • Creating an environment for experimenting and cooperating, at the same time promoting the efficient use of available human, technical and material resources. 

  • Bringing non-formal activities to a formal education environment 

  • The school environment proved to be creative in addressing digital and green challenges and connecting science, technology and creativity.

Teachers

  • Involved teachers received training about the project's methodology, got a chance to experience non-formal learning methods in practice. 

  • Developing skills in using innovative tools, such as programming with micro: bit, 3D modelling and printing, laser cutting, 

  • Gaining skills in the application of Design Thinking, IBSE, PBL, Engineering and other STEAM methods.

  • A long-term teacher qualification programme was initiated as an effective method of collecting and sharing best practices among fellow teachers.

Impact

  • Pupils gained new knowledge and skills as well as an opportunity to think, feel and act as inventors.

  • Youngsters with special needs were equally involved in the activities thanks to the practical and hands-on type of hackathon.  

  • Teachers gained more confidence in STEAM activities and also demonstrated motivation, dedication and creativity in adapting the methodology to the needs of their students.

  • The transferability of the methodology has already been proven in 3 countries, in formal, non-formal and informal learning environments.

Think Inside the Box! A Methodological STEAM Toolkit for Schools - Lithuania
Project category
Primary education
Project year
2022

Stakeholders

Coordinators

Robotikos mokykla (School of Robotics)

Address
Lithuania

Panevėžio švietimo centras (Panevėžys Education Center)

Address
Lithuania

VGTU inžinerijos licėjus (VGTU Engineering Lyceum)

Address
Lithuania

Kuressaare Nooruse Kool (Kuressaare Nooruse School)

Address
Estonia

Colegiul Tehnic “Gheorghe Asachi” Botosani

Address
Romania