JUGAAD – Promoting STEM approach and digital competences

<< Background >>We applied for the JUGAAD project to address the challenges of implementing the STEAM approach, promoting interest in STEM and fostering digital competencies in schools. Despite the recognized value of inter- and transdisciplinary teaching, many European schools struggle to adopt the STEAM approach due to unclear guidelines and the pressure to meet curricular objectives. Teachers often lack simple, structured resources that simultaneously enhance STEM teaching, develop digital skills, and ensure curriculum adherence. JUGAAD aims to bridge this gap by providing accessible, adaptable tools that support experiential learning, problem-solving, and collaboration. This both enhances the teachers’ competencies and students’ knowledge and motivation. Additionally, the project addressed the need for innovative assessment methods that value acquired competencies and promote further learning. JUGAAD also aimed to reduce the gender gap in STEM, and engage stakeholders in promoting STEM policies. Its innovative resources empower teachers and students while fostering creativity, inclusion, and sustainable learning pathways.<< Objectives >>JUGAAD aimed to promote interest and excellence in STEM, the STEAM approach, and digital competences and to support teachers. To achieve this, it developed an Education Toolkit comprising 15 workshops designed for teachers and students aged 8 to 14. Each workshop is based on the STEAM approach, supports the enhancement of digital competences and integrates curricular skills from at least two different STEM subjects. JUGAAD also developed the Assessment Toolkit. It includes the JUGAAD STEAM Competency Framework, which outlines the key digital and STEM competences developed in each workshop, improving teaching quality and defining learning outcomes. The Benchmarking Self-Assessment helps teachers assess their competences and reflect on their professional growth. Additionally, the Assessment Toolkit offers 15 interactive quizzes, one for each workshop, using gamification and digital badges to create an engaging way to assess student competences. This approach enhances student motivation, increases participation, and highlights the importance of skill recognition.To make these tools replicable and adaptable, JUGAAD developed them as OER and uploaded them on a ePlatform in 8 languages. << Implementation >>JUGAAD developed and tested the Education Toolkit and the Assessment Toolkit. To achieve this, it carried out an initial analysis involving 128 European teachers. This was followed by the creation and implementation of the various components of the two Toolkits, including: two comprehensive manuals; 15 workshops with detailed instructions on materials, activities, goals, and learning outcomes; 15 gamified quizzes to enhance engagement and motivation; a new and tailored competency framework and a self-assessment tool for teachers. All resources were translated into the 8 partner languages. To ensure free and accessible use, the JUGAAD ePlatform was created as the central hub for these resources. The project also involved the training of over 200 European teachers on how to use the Toolkits, followed by a testing phase involving 1.300 students aged 8-14. After validation, the documents and resources are now available for use by all interested stakeholders. The JUGAAD partnership carried out extensive promotion, communication, and dissemination activities, which included 12 Multiplier Events and 2 international events. Additionally, the partners signed a Sustainability Plan to ensure the long-term impact of project’s outcomes.<< Results >>The 3 main JUGAAD outputs are Education Toolkit, Assessment Toolkit, and ePlatform. The Education Toolkit consists of 15 workshops designed to help teachers implement the STEAM approach, develop interest in STEM and related competences, and foster digital skills. The Assessment Toolkit provides innovative tools for evaluating teacher and student competencies, including a tailored competency framework, self-assessment tool for teachers, and 15 gamified quizzes. The ePlatform is an accessible online hub where all resources and tools are freely available in 8 languages, supporting a broader dissemination and use across diverse educational contexts. These outputs have supported teachers in adopting the STEAM approach, enhancing digital competencies, promoting STEM curricular contents and emphasizing the importance of (self-)assessment as a motivational tool. For students, outputs provided an engaging way to experience the STEAM approach, strengthen digital skills, and improve their STEM-related curricular knowledge while testing evaluation methods designed to encourage continuous learning and curiosity. Thanks to JUGAAD, PPs have increased their competences, networks, tools and methodologies.