Innovation Centres constitute a knowledge ecosystem that integrates and links the school community, the local community, research institutions, universities and local businesses, while connecting with similar educational ecosystems in Europe and elsewhere in the world.Innovation Centres are purpose-built, high-quality environments for STEM learning, green growth and innovation promotion in general. Each lab can be designed to support multiple topics and curriculum modules to meet the unique educational needs of each community.
They aim to have both a virtual format to support remote schools and districts, and a physical presence at a specific site to be visited by stakeholders.
At the same time, one Innovation Lab will be developed in the premises of the implementing institution for the needs of designing the educational material and the training of the teachers who will staff the Innovation Centres!
Main pillars of the project
In detail, the scope of the project includes the following five (5) main pillars:
- Educational Programmes: For all educational programmes, detailed scenarios and educational material is being developed, covering the teaching of each subject, while at the same time manuals are being compiled for students and teachers.
- Supply and installation of technological/network equipment (hardware/software) to enable the implementation of these specific educational programmes.
- Architectural design of Innovation Centres’ premises: The supply and installation of office-hall equipment and other interior design works is being carried out to serve the single identity among all ICs, with a pleasant and playful environment that attracts visitors. The exterior premises of each IC can also be used for the implementation of educational scenarios!
- Training of teachers and, in general, of the personnel that will staff Innovation Centres, so that they acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out the task of disseminating knowledge to both the teachers who will visit the ICs and their students.
- Services: Production of educational modules, piloting & technical support services, project coordination and management.
Timeline
The overall Project comprises the following distinct Phases:
Phase 1. (2023) Preparatory Actions
- Preparation of the Innovation Centres’ Call for Proposals,
- Definition of Innovation Centres premises,
- Definition of Project Teams,
- Other management actions to complete the competitive process.
Phase 2 (2024) Development of ICs
- Establishment of an Innovation Lab at the CTI premises in Athens
- Development of educational modules.
Phase 3. (2025) Pilot operation of ICs
- Establishment of Innovation Centres and Central Support Infrastructure,
- Training of teachers that will staff the Innovation Centres,
- Pilot Operation.