MULTIPLAYERS' PARTNERSHIPS TO ENSURE MEANINGFUL ENGAGEMENT WITH SCIENCE AND RESEARCH

Project Information

MULTIPLIERS

Grant agreement ID: 101006255

DOI

10.3030/101006255

Project closed

EC signature date 19 July 2021

Start date 1 November 2021

End date 31 October 2024

Funded under

• Encourage citizens to engage in science through formal and informal science education, and promote the diffusion of science-based activities, namely in science centres and through other appropriate channels

Total cost

€ 1 381 375,00

EU contribution

€ 1 381 375,00

Coordinated by

RHEINISCHE FRIEDRICH-WILHELMS-UNIVERSITAT BONN
Germany

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - MULTIPLIERS (MULTIPLAYERS' PARTNERSHIPS TO ENSURE MEANINGFUL ENGAGEMENT WITH SCIENCE AND RESEARCH)

Reporting period: 2023-05-01 to 2024-10-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Modern societies are facing a wide range of complex challenges, such as fighting global climate change, protecting the environment, and promoting healthy living. To successfully prepare for and address such challenges, citizens need to be capable of identifying fake news/information, and participate responsibly in science-informed decision making. High-quality, life-long science education is essential for providing citizens with the necessary understanding and skills.
To address this issue and expand opportunities for authentic science learning, the MULTIPLIERS project’s aims were to establish educational partnerships (“Open Science Communities”, OSCs) composed of different stakeholders (schools, families, industry, civil society organisations, informal education providers, media, policy-makers and a wide range of scientific institutions) to enable open, inclusive and inquiry-based learning on scientific topics that have a direct impact on citizens’ lives. The international project consortium brings together partners from seven EU countries (Cyprus, Finland, Germany, Italy, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden).
Over three years, the project empowered students to act as science multipliers, sharing their findings with families and communities through events, debates, and innovative outreach formats like podcasts and exhibitions. MULTIPLIERS also developed multilingual educational toolkits and a White Book offering guidelines for scaling open schooling approaches across Europe.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The project successfully established and expanded OSCs, mobilizing over 80 institutions by its conclusion, which surpassed the original target of 60. These communities fostered collaboration across sectors, enabling innovative learning experiences on topics such as air quality, water management, and vaccination. The implementation of three rounds of science learning projects involved more than 1,500 students and a broad spectrum of stakeholders. Activities included data collection, discussions with scientists, and public dissemination of results, ensuring broad societal engagement.
The project also developed a comprehensive collection of educational resources, including toolkits and materials translated into multiple languages, which were made available on the project’s open-access platform, the “Open Schooling Hub”. These resources support the adoption of open schooling approaches in diverse educational settings.
Pre- and post surveys and qualitative interviews with students as well as teachers revealed significant impacts, including increased student interest in science, enhanced self-efficacy, and improved critical thinking skills. Stakeholders highlighted the project's success in bringing science education closer to real-world applications.
Results were widely disseminated through international conferences, newsletters, and media campaigns, effectively reaching stakeholders across Europe. In addition, the project published a White Book and actionable policy recommendations to help educators and policymakers implement and sustain open schooling initiatives. A sustainability plan was also developed, outlining strategies to ensure the continued operation of OSCs beyond the project’s duration, supported by financial and institutional mechanisms.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

MULTIPLIERS advanced the state of science education by embedding socio-scientific issues directly into learning processes, effectively bridging the gap between formal education and societal needs. Through the integration of real-life scientific challenges into formal education and the fostering of student-led knowledge dissemination, the project redefined the role of schools as active hubs for science communication and community engagement. Participants acquired tools to critically evaluate scientific information, fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry capable of contributing to public debates and decision-making processes.
The project has also had a socio-economic impact by supporting workforce development in STEM fields and preparing students for careers in science and technology. By promoting public dialogue with science experts on pressing issues like vaccination and biodiversity conservation, MULTIPLIERS strengthened societal trust in science and encouraged collaborative problem-solving.
Looking forward, the tools, resources, and established OSC networks created through MULTIPLIERS will continue to drive meaningful engagement with science. These outcomes will help shape future educational policies and practices across Europe, ensuring that open schooling remains a vital part of addressing global challenges.

Activity with the students on Biodiversity and Agriculture

Activity with the students on forest use vs forest protection

Activity with the students on forest use vs forest protection

Water management communication activity

Activity with students on air pollution

Activity with the students on water management

Students acting as multipliers by producing a podcast on vaccination

Students acting as multipliers in the marteloscope in Ljubljana

Cyprus sCYence fair

Students discuss the topic of mandatory COVID-19 vaccination