The FIND-STEM project recently reached another milestone with the successful completion of the teacher training course in Estarreja, Portugal. Hosted at Escola Secundária de Estarreja, the program engaged 21 experienced educators from the Agrupamento de Escolas de Estarreja in a comprehensive professional development journey.
A Comprehensive Approach to STEAM
Delivered across two sessions in November 2025, the eight-hour training provided a deep dive into innovative pedagogical strategies. The curriculum was structured into six specialized modules designed to modernize classroom practices:
- Creative & Inclusive Teaching: Exploring project-based and inquiry-based methodologies to foster student engagement.
- Digital Literacy: Integrating advanced tools such as WebQuests, digital breakouts, and the use of AI in STEM teaching.
- Inclusion & Equality: Implementing strategies to involve under-represented groups and promote gender equality in the classroom.
- Modern Assessment: Developing effective formative and summative assessment methods for higher student participation.
Voices from the Training: What Teachers Valued
The qualitative feedback from the participants highlighted the practical and collaborative nature of the FIND-STEM approach:
- Practical Digital Tools: Educators frequently noted that WebQuests and digital breakouts were “motivating tools” that could be immediately applied to their lessons.
- Collaborative Learning: The exchange of experiences and group discussions were cited as essential for gaining new perspectives on teaching.
- Innovative Methodologies: Teachers valued the exposure to STEAM integration and real-world problem-solving formats.