ICSE Science Factory

Project Information

ICSEfactory

Grant agreement ID: 101093387

DOI

10.3030/101093387

Project closed

EC signature date 16 November 2022

Start date 1 January 2023

End date 28 February 2026

Funded under

• Reforming and enhancing the European R&I System

Total cost

€ 1 980 507,50

EU contribution

€ 1 980 507,50

Coordinated by

PADAGOGISCHE HOCHSCHULE FREIBURG
Germany

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - ICSEfactory (ICSE Science Factory)

Reporting period: 2023-01-01 to 2024-02-29

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The ICSE Science Factory project, funded by the European Union, addresses the shortage of scientists and science-literate citizens within the EU. By establishing partnerships in Germany, Portugal, Croatia, Cyprus, and Turkey, the project seeks to increase the number of scientists and enhance scientific knowledge in communities. These partnerships involve a diverse array of stakeholders, including science researchers, education researchers, non-formal education providers, schools, enterprises, and community institutions.
The project promotes science education and community engagement through local conventions where research findings are shared and applied, as well as public fairs that integrate communities into the scientific learning process. The ultimate goal is to improve science education for all citizens, fostering new partnerships among teachers, students, scientists, researchers, and business professionals. These partnerships engage in real-life problem-solving, contributing to lifelong learning and sparking interest in science studies and careers, especially among women.

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

Since its inception in January 2023, the project has achieved several milestones. An independent Ethics Advisor was appointed to monitor the project, and a kick-off meeting in March 2023 initiated the work processes. The project launched its website in August 2023 to enhance accessibility and visibility. Comprehensive plans for data management, dissemination, communication, and evaluation were established, and evaluation tools for key project activities were developed and made accessible to all partners by September 2023. Local kick-off events were organized across all partner countries, culminating in February 2024. Initial drafts of best practice examples and a mentoring encouragement report have been submitted in March 2024, along with a finalized Policy Brief and several detailed reports.
The pilot phase of key activities, including Lighthouse Activities, Open Schooling Activities, and Career Talks, is nearing completion. This phase involves preparing workshop content, conducting regional workshops, supporting schools, collecting evaluation data, and documenting projects. Foundational documents covering ethics, data management, and dissemination strategies have been established, and reports on evaluation instruments and dissemination activities have been promoted through multiple channels to target groups such as schools, policymakers, and local science education actors.

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)

The project has facilitated innovative partnerships through Lighthouse and Open Schooling Activities, integrating participants into scientific research and innovation processes to address challenges related to health, digital technology, and sustainability. These partnerships enhance scientific literacy and environmental awareness, empowering students to tackle environmental challenges and learn about sustainable development.
The expected outcomes include increased science literacy, a heightened awareness of the importance and attractiveness of science careers, improved understanding of sustainability issues, and a stronger sense of personal responsibility. These outcomes are essential for nurturing responsible citizens ready to contribute to a sustainable future.