CONNECT: Designing the Classroom of Tomorrow by Using Advanced Technologies to Connect Formal and Informal Learning
Project description
The Connect project proposes to create a learning environment that will undertake just such an effort, wedding effective informal learning strategies with exemplary formal curricular activities in an attractive learning environment that utilizes cutting edge information and communication technologies in science education. The aim of the project is to explore, test, refine and demonstrate an innovative approach that crosscuts the boundaries between schools, museums, research centers and science centers and involves students and teachers in extended episodes of playful learning. Specifically and practically the project will map the evolution from the wired virtual learning environment of today, to the wireless learning environment of tomorrow.
Why does it matter
Full project, education and advanced technologies to connect formal and informal environments.
Partners and funding sources
Institute of Communications and Computer Systems, Greece; University of Essen-Duisburg, Germany; Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel; Institute for Learning Innovation, USA; University of Birmingham, UK; Frauenhofer Institute of Technology – Collaborative Virtual and Augmented Environments, Germany; INTRASOFT International S.A., Spain; LEGO, Denmark.
Funding Agency:
EU SIXTH FRAMEWORK, Programme Priority IST-2002-2.3.1.12, Contract Number: 507844
Results
The CONNECT team has prototyped five exhibits integrating AR technology: the Airtrack, the Aerofoil, the Biotube, the Hot Air Balloon, and the Electromagnetic Spectrum. They correspond to common units of scientific learning content and were tested in four countries: Sweden, Finland, United Kingdom, and Greece.
Methodology
CONNECT mobilised a multidisciplinary group of experts from the fields of learning technologies, cognitive science, psychology, information and communication technologies and science education and could draw on the assets of research centres in several countries, a European network of science museums and a multinational group of secondary schools supported by the appropriate educational bodies.
Next steps
The Virtual Science Thematic Park was the main hub of resources available in the developed network and served as distributor of information and organiser of suitable educational activities, such as students’ virtual and conventional visits to science museums and science centres. These visits served (through an informal but yet structured way) main educational aims of the official curriculum.
Publications
