Abstract:

In the contemporary educational landscape, there is a growing awareness of the essential need to cultivate competences and skills in school students. A promising approach gaining widespread acceptance involves the incorporation of multidisciplinary project-based learning activities. This article presents the STEAME project, designed to prepare students for the dynamic real world. The project introduces the STEAME Teacher Facilitators Academies, which operates as a network of local academies, to catalyse educational change.

Many teachers face challenges in effectively facilitating project-based learning activities, particularly in the STEAME fields, as evidenced by research. This lack of competence, along with the absence of appropriate tools and methodologies, not only delays students' success in STEM subjects but also leads to a decline in interest in these areas. To counter these issues, the project seeks to address the shortcomings by offering comprehensive training and support for teachers.
Emphasizing the crucial role of teachers, the STEAME project proposes a collaborative platform connecting school and university education with industry, fostering sustainable development in teacher education and continuous professional development.

The project introduces the Teacher Facilitators Competence Framework, delineating essential skills for effective STEAME learning. Innovative Teacher Facilitators Learning Modules, Workshops, and an International Sharing Observatory will enable collaborative learning experiences. A Community of Practice/Mentoring and Certification Programme offers ongoing support to keep teachers abreast of STEAME education trends.

Furthermore, the European Federation of STEAME Teacher Facilitators Academies will provide policy recommendations for widespread implementation. The STEAME project is prepared to revolutionize education by equipping teachers with the skills and knowledge needed for engaging, project-based learning environments.

The ultimate goal of this innovation is to place teachers on the path to Education 3.0 and 4.0, where they can leverage the latest trends and technologies in their field to provide their students with a world-class education. By embracing innovative technologies, Education 3.0 recognizes the pivotal role of students in actively shaping their learning experiences through online networks and personalized technological tools. At the same time, education 4.0 utilizes artificial intelligence to revolutionize teaching and learning. Teachers equipped with these tools can provide students with a cutting-edge education tailored to their evolving needs. Education 4.0 stands as a transformative force, shaping a future generation of adaptable and innovative educators.

All things considered, the fast-paced and dynamic nature of today's world underscores the indispensable need for teachers to engage in continuous professional development. The STEAME project stands out as a high-quality innovation poised to empower teachers, enabling them to stay at the forefront of educational advancements and deliver optimal learning experiences to their students. Its innovative approach and collaborative ethos position the STEAME project as a transformative force in the realm of education.

Keywords:

STEAME Teacher Facilitators Academy, Project-based learning, Teacher professional development, STEM education.