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Author: Nikolina Frangoullidou

CARDET participates at the STEAME Festival 2024 in Limassol

CARDET Participated in the 2nd Cyprus STEAME Festival 2024

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Blog.

CARDET proudly participated in the 2nd Cyprus STEAME Festival, held on November 29-30, 2024, at Linopetra Lyceum in Limassol. The event, organized by the Cyprus Mathematical Society, the STEAME ACADEMY project, and the Thales Foundation, showcased innovative STEAME learning activities and workshops for students, teachers, and the general public.

During the festival, CARDET presented three key projects that aimed to engage the audience in STEAME education, with a focus on inclusion and sustainability:

STEAM4LIFE

To celebrate the successful conclusion of the STEAM4LIFE project, CARDET showcased its achievements in promoting gender equality in STEAM fields. Visitors explored practical tools such as the career choice simulator and the MOOC (massive open online course) platform, both designed to inspire women and advance their participation in STEAM careers.

EcoSTEAM

Through a creative art installation activity, CARDET engaged participants in discussions about sustainability and ecology. Attendees shared their ideas using drawings and post-its, emphasizing the importance of integrating STEAM education with environmental awareness.

Coding4Kids

CARDET also highlighted the Coding4Kids platform, which introduces coding concepts through real-life scenarios. Educators explored the platform’s interactive lessons and activities, gaining valuable tools to incorporate into their teaching methods.

The festival was an excellent opportunity to connect with educators, students, and stakeholders, exchanging ideas and resources to foster a more inclusive and sustainable society.

boyslingo project releases its latest newsletter and infographic

BoysLingo Wraps Up with the Release of the 4th Newsletter and a Comprehensive Infographic

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Project News.

The BoysLingo Project has successfully concluded, promoting inclusive language learning by engaging students, especially boys, through innovative, gamified approaches and mobile technologies. Over the course of its two-years of implementation, the project empowered educators and students, addressing the gender gap in education and inspiring more meaningful engagement with language lessons by adopting inclusive practices based on its results. 

Highlighting this closure, the BoysLingo project is now releasing its final newsletter and an infographic showcasing key achievements and tools. The goal is for these resources to remain accessible, continuing to support educators in fostering equality and inclusivity in language education.

Find out more in the newsletter and the infographic below.

EcoSTEAM final transnational partner meeting in Lithuania

EcoSTEAM TPM Concludes Successfully in Vilnius, Lithuania

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Project News.

The EcoSTEAM project, an Erasmus+ initiative, successfully held its final Transnational Partner Meeting (TPM) in Vilnius, Lithuania, on November 28–29, 2024. The meeting marked the culmination of the project’s collaborative efforts, bringing together partners to reflect on achievements, evaluate pilot outcomes, and plan for the sustainability of its results.

Over the two-day meeting, participants reviewed the project’s key deliverables, including the e-Learning Concept, e-Teaching Program, and e-Guide. These final outputs were presented, and their impact was analyzed, particularly in light of pilot activities that engaged 200 students across four countries. Feedback from the pilots highlighted the project’s success in fostering environmental awareness and sparking interest in STEAM topics among young learners.

The meeting also prioritized preparing the final report for submission to the National Agency, ensuring all administrative and financial documentation was completed with full transparency. Partners reflected on the challenges encountered during the project, shared success stories, and discussed lessons learned to inform future initiatives.

Sustainability was a central theme of the discussions, with a focus on how EcoSTEAM’s methodologies and outputs can continue to support educational practices beyond the project’s funding period. Dissemination efforts were reviewed, and plans were developed to ensure the ongoing promotion of the project’s tools and resources.

EcoSTEAM, which aims to enhance STEAM education while addressing environmental sustainability and climate change, has been a significant step forward in equipping secondary school students with the skills and awareness needed to become engaged and informed scientific citizens. The Vilnius meeting provided a fitting conclusion to this impactful project, leaving partners with a clear roadmap for sustaining its legacy in education and innovation.

To learn more about the EcoSTEAM project, please visit here

TUA Project releases its fourth newsletter

TUA Project Releases Its 4th and Final Newsletter

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Project News.

As the TUA Project draws to a close, we’re excited to present the 4th and final newsletter!

This edition is filled with key updates and achievements, including the launch of the “Express Yourself” e-learning platform and digital toolkit. These innovative resources empower individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Down Syndrome (DS) to embrace art, explore social entrepreneurship, and unlock their full potential through meaningful self-expression.

The project’s journey culminated in Palermo, where partners gathered for the final meeting to celebrate two years of impactful work and discuss the enduring legacy of the TUA Project.

Discover all the highlights and outcomes in the final newsletter! Find it below

TUA project concludes with successful multiplier events

TUA Project Hosts Successful Multiplier Events in Nicosia

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Project News.

The TUA (The Unexpected Artrepreneur) project recently organised two successful multiplier events at the Nicosia Autism Association and the Association of Parents and Friends of Children with Special Needs, highlighting the accomplishments of its two-year journey. These events marked a pivotal moment in the project’s implementation, providing an opportunity to showcase its outcomes, share valuable insights, and present its innovative approach to improving learning opportunities for individuals with autism and Down syndrome, as well as for the professionals who support them.

The TUA project is dedicated to enhancing the educational and developmental experiences of young individuals with autism and Down syndrome. Through practical tools, personalised learning opportunities, and professional development resources, the project promotes an inclusive and supportive learning environment tailored to meet diverse needs.

At the events, attendees explored the project’s digital tools, including its official website and eLearning platform. Designed for accessibility and ease of use, these resources empower educators, caregivers, and parents to engage effectively with the materials. The eLearning platform, featuring interactive modules that build practical skills and enhance communication, garnered particular attention. Its emphasis on tailored learning strategies for children with autism and Down syndrome was met with great enthusiasm.

Feedback from participants underscored the need for more resources like these to better support the work of professionals striving to improve the lives and opportunities of individuals with special needs.

To learn more about the TUA project and access its resources, visit here. 

XRwomen Project Final Conference in Cyprus

XR Women Final Conference: Celebrating Innovation in Language Learning and Inclusion

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Project News.

On November 28th, CARDET hosted the final conference of the XR Women project, marking the culmination of two years of pioneering work in language learning and social inclusion through XR (Extended Reality) technologies.

The event brought together educators, students, and researchers to explore the transformative potential of XR tools in education. Attendees also had the opportunity to engage with the project’s free resources through interactive demonstrations. A highlight of the conference was the keynote address by Dr. Chris Christou from the University of Nicosia, who delivered an inspiring presentation on how XR technologies are revolutionizing education, with a particular emphasis on fostering inclusivity

Project Achievements

Over the past two years, the XR Women project has made significant strides in empowering refugee women and women with fewer opportunities by enhancing their language skills and promoting civic engagement through XR tools. Key milestones include:

  • A dynamic e-learning platform for inclusive language learning. Explore it here.
  • A comprehensive toolkit to help educators integrate XR technologies into their teaching. Learn more here.

As CARDET concludes this initiative, the tools and knowledge developed will continue to advance inclusive education and inspire innovation in teaching practices. Discover more about the project’s journey and impact through this video or by visiting the XR Women website.

Limassol International Book Fair 2024

CARDET Highlights Digital Literacy and Language Learning at Limassol Book Fair 2024

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Blog.

CARDET was a key participant in the 3rd Limassol International Book Fair, held at the Lanitis Carob Mill from November 22-24, 2024. The Fair brought together over 30 prominent speakers and panelists from across Europe and the Middle East, offering a dynamic forum for the publishing and literary communities to discuss emerging trends and share expertise. CARDET’s presence underscored its commitment to advancing digital literacy, language learning, and community engagement.

One of CARDET’s significant contributions was the keynote address and panel discussion on The Role of Libraries in Promoting Digital Skills, held on November 22. CARDET’s Executive Director, Dr. Charalambos Vrasidas, delivered an insightful keynote on Artificial Intelligence, Literacy, and Life Skills, exploring how AI is reshaping literacy education and how libraries can equip communities with essential digital skills for the future. 

Following his talk, a panel titled Emerging Digital Skills in the Age of Artificial Intelligence featured experts including: 

  • Dr. Christos Anagiotos, Director of the Pedagogical Support Unit for E-Learning at the University of Nicosia; 
  • Christos Christofides, Member of Parliament for the Education Committee; and 
  • Giorgos Glossiotis, a librarian and member of the Regional Committee of Europe for IFLA. 

The panel was moderated by Andreas K. Andreou, Head of Systems and IT at the University of Cyprus Library. Together, they discussed the evolving roles of libraries in fostering digital literacy, promoting inclusive policies, and serving as key community resources for lifelong learning and skill-building across all ages. Dr. Vrasidas, emphasized the importance of the PartnerUP and LeaderAI Projects, which CARDET is implementing in Cyprus, and explained how these initiatives contribute to skill upgrading, create opportunities for adults, and strengthen their participation in lifelong learning.

On November 24, CARDET’s BoysLingo team engaged young participants in a workshop titled Learning a New Language Through Gamified Scenarios on Mobile Devices. This interactive session invited educators, parents, and children aged 10-14 to experience a gamified approach to language acquisition. Through mobile-based scenarios, participants explored effective language-learning techniques in an engaging, hands-on environment. Attendees also received access to free online resources to continue their language education journey.

The Limassol International Book Fair, now in its third year, continues to grow as a cultural landmark, bringing together diverse stakeholders, including publishers, educators, and librarians. CARDET’s contributions at the event showcased its commitment to innovative learning and digital literacy, reinforcing the organization’s role as a leader in education and community development in Cyprus and beyond.

Empowering Students for a Sustainable Future: SMILE Project Unveils Educational Videos

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Uncategorized.

The SMILE project proudly announces the launch of a dynamic series of educational videos designed to inspire and engage students in addressing climate change, promoting sustainable mobility, and advancing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education. These videos aim to raise awareness, foster critical thinking, and empower young people to adopt climate-conscious behaviors that help reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

A centerpiece of SMILE’s Result 3: Educational Resources for Students & Piloting, the videos are integrated with creative and interactive Escape Room activities, making learning both enjoyable and impactful. By blending storytelling with problem-solving, these resources empower students to tackle environmental challenges while envisioning sustainable solutions.

As the project concludes, its primary focus remains equipping teachers with the knowledge and tools needed to guide students in understanding and addressing climate-related issues. Through capacity building and innovative educational methods, SMILE fosters a deeper commitment to sustainability and inspires active participation in creating a greener future.

Teachers, students, and stakeholders are invited to explore these videos and join this transformative initiative.Watch the videos here: SMILE Project YouTube Channel.

STEM4LIFE Project Releases Key Resources for Empowering Women in Cyprus to follow a STEAM career path

STEAM4LIFE Project Releases Key Resources for Empowering Women in Cyprus’ STEAM Sector

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Project News.

The STEAM4LIFE project has successfully concluded, making impactful advancements in promoting female participation in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) fields among higher education students in Cyprus. This project has aimed to address the gender gap by creating initiatives that encourage young women to explore and thrive in STEAM careers. In collaboration with universities and industry leaders, STEAM4LIFE has supported the adoption of innovative practices that advance both gender equality and educational excellence in the STEAM sector. 

Throughout the project, partners developed a wealth of educational and training materials aimed at boosting engagement and supporting effective mentorship and teaching practices. Key outputs include:

  1. Guidance and Mentoring Programme for Women in STEAM
    This comprehensive guide provides higher education leaders and educators with essential knowledge and practical tools to engage female students in STEAM activities. It offers insights on promoting digital skills and mentoring women to make informed career decisions. Access here

  2. STEAM4LIFE E-Learning Platform
    The platform features 18 detailed lecture plans tailored for higher education educators, as well as an innovative career simulator with eight interactive scenarios designed to help students explore gender-oriented career paths. Additionally, it offers 36 open educational resources (OERs) related to STEM/STEAM, fostering an accessible and diverse learning environment. Access here

  3. STEAM4LIFE Educational E-Courses
    These two e-courses consist of four interactive learning modules each. Aimed at higher education educators and industry professionals, the modules provide both theoretical and practical strategies to inspire and guide students toward pursuing STEAM careers. Access here 

All these innovative resources are available for free. For more information about the project, visit the official website. 

BoysLingo concludes in Poland

BoysLingo Partners Meet for the Final Time in Poland

Written by Nikolina Frangoullidou on . Posted in Project News.

On November 14-15, 2024, CARDET proudly attended the final partner meeting and conference of the BoysLingo project, hosted by Sysco Polska in Warsaw, Poland. This milestone event marked the culmination of years of collaboration, during which partners reflected on the progress made and explored the lasting impact of BoysLingo on language learning for young boys.

The BoysLingo project aimed to enhance the language skills of boys aged 10-14 through innovative, gamified mobile learning environments. It provided a comprehensive teaching approach, creating an inclusive and engaging experience that helped boys achieve strong language competence. At the final event, partners showcased the project’s achievements and resources.

Key Deliverables of the Project:

  • Handbook of Guidelines, Activities, and Best Practices: This extensive resource supports teachers and school communities in adopting gamified learning strategies to improve boys’ language skills. It includes methodologies, apps, and best practices to enhance learning outcomes.
  • Mobile App: The BoysLingo app offers 40 gamified learning scenarios aligned with national curricula, featuring customizable characters, interactive quizzes, and real-world examples. The app is available for download on the App Store and Play Store.
  • Teacher Training Curricula – E-learning Platform: Designed for educators, school leaders, and staff, this platform includes three learning modules that provide the knowledge to integrate gamified language learning activities into classrooms using digital tools.

To learn more about the project and access its resources, visit the BoysLingo website or follow the project on Facebook.