Generative Artificial Intelligence in STEAM education and student-centeredness
STEAM projects in Cahul and Ungheni
About
The UNICEF project “Strengthening Innovative Student-Centered Teaching and Learning Practices in Schools from Key Regions: Ungheni and Cahul, through Digital Technologies and STEAM Projects” was developed under the auspices of the Ministry of Education and Research, in partnership with the National Association of ICT Companies (ATIC), as part of the “EU4Moldova: Focal Regions” Programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNICEF and UNDP.
The project's objective is to enhance the interest of middle school students in key regions in the learning process by equipping teachers with the skills to effectively integrate Generative AI (GenAI) tools into educational activities. To achieve this, the project includes the development of a digital training course for teachers on using GenAI tools in STEAM education with a student-centered approach. Additionally, the project features a training and mentorship program for teachers from selected schools, helping them design STEAM projects and student-centered teaching activities using GenAI technologies. The project runs from September 15, 2023 – June 30, 2024, across 12 schools selected through a competitive process in the key regions of Ungheni and Cahul.
Each participating school designated a team of STEAM subject teachers working with middle school students. As a result, over 103 teachers actively participated in training workshops held in January – February 2024. To maximize impact, one student class per school was selected to engage in the STEAM projects. Following their participation in the training and mentorship workshops, teachers developed student-centered lesson plans and conducted classes based on their newly designed activities. Moreover, teachers collaborated closely with students in drafting STEAM project blueprints and implementing innovative learning experiences.
