Mentortec has recently had a new European project in STEM education approved, reinforcing its involvement in developing innovative educational approaches. The SCIFine project, which stands for ‘Scientific Capacity through Inquiry for Foundational Impact and Networked Engagement‘, aims to promote scientific literacy and the development of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) skills.

It focuses on training primary school educators and teachers to implement more effective science and mathematics teaching practices, thereby improving pupil performance and strengthening basic literacy skills from an early stage.

Background

Integrating STEM skills into early education has become increasingly important in European education systems. Rapid technological and digital developments, as well as the need to prepare children for future challenges, require the adoption of more active, participatory, and research-based teaching methodologies.

This challenge is particularly relevant in Portugal, given the results of international assessments that highlight persistent difficulties in mathematics and science. Against this backdrop, the SCIFine project was developed in response to needs identified at the European and national levels.

Objectives

SCIFine is a strategic project focused on early childhood education and care and primary education, with the following objectives:

  • Strengthening scientific, mathematical and digital literacy;
  • Promoting constructivist and research-based teaching practices in STEM subjects;
  • Developing educational resources to support teaching practice;
  • Empowering educators, teachers and families;
  • Promoting collaboration between schools, families and the local community.

The project focuses on learning through research and problem solving, as well as the integration of digital technologies. This contributes to the development of essential skills for a digital and green transition.

SCIFine is funded by the Erasmus+ Programme under the Forward-Looking Projects – School Education action.

Expected Impact

The project aims to increase motivation, engagement and performance in STEM subjects among children and students by enhancing the skills of education professionals and providing innovative teaching resources.

It also aims to reduce inequalities in access to quality educational practices and resources, and strengthen the link between schools and the community by promoting mobilisation tools and creating regional STEM hubs.

Partenerships

The project consortium comprises higher education institutions, non-profit organisations, schools and public entities from Portugal, Croatia and Slovenia. These organisations will collaborate to create a network of ‘scientific parents and schools’, promoting knowledge sharing and cooperation between the educational community and science experts.

In Portugal, Mentortec, the Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, the Ministry of Education and INNOVEDU are participating in the project.

Next Steps

In the coming months, the project will enter the implementation phase. This will begin with research and analysis of existing STEM learning practices, the needs of the educational ecosystem and opportunities for adopting constructivist approaches and open school practices.

Drawing on its experience in project management, innovation in education, networking, training and sustainability, Mentortec will spearhead initiatives centred on developing courses and resources for initial and continuing teacher training, as well as formulating evidence-based educational policy recommendations.