NEF Athens 2023

Smart Schools and Circular Cities: Digitalizing Learning for a Sustainable Future
October 17, 2023 9:00 am
University of Piraeus, Conference and Ceremonies Hall 80, M. Karaoli & A. Dimitriou St., 18534 Piraeus, Athens, Greece

This conference will explore the intersection of smart cities and smart citizenship, the role of schools in the circular and climate-neutral economy, the development of digital and green competences, and the digital transformation of education. It aims to foster discussion and collaboration among educators, city planners, policymakers, technology experts, youth and other stakeholders interested in leveraging digital systems and sustainable practices to create smarter and more environmentally conscious communities.

Organised by:

  • Center for Innovative Education, leader of the MENTOR2.0 Consortium
  • KEAN – Cell of Alternative Youth Activities

Supported by:

  • MSc Program in Digital Learning, Department of Digital Systems, University of Piraeus, Greece
  • MSc Program in Climate Crisis and Information and Communication Technologies, Department of Digital Systems, University of Piraeus, Greece
  • International Relations Office, University of Piraeus, Greece

About

Three Key Themes:

Smart Cities for Sustainable Schools: Exploring how smart city initiatives can help schools integrate circular and climate-neutral economy principles, i.e. by ensuring energy-efficient technologies in creating sustainable and environmentally friendly school environments. Placing emphasis on raising awareness on waste reduction, resource efficiency, and sustainable consumption among new generations. Discussing the role of schools in promoting circular and climate-neutral practices within communities.

This theme aligns with the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan, according to which, “the transition to a more circular economy is an essential part of the European Green Deal.” Further, the EU’s Education and Training 2020 Strategy, also aims to provide quality education and promote sustainable development. The conference contributes to the strategy’s objective of fostering sustainable practices among European citizens. As stated in the strategy, “sustainable development is a core element of the European Union’s cooperation in education and training.”

Digital Learning Empowering Students as Agents of Change: Examining how digital technologies can enhance learning experiences and promote green transition and sustainable development in schools. Discussing innovative approaches such as online platforms, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, gamification, and collaborative tools for engaging students in circular and climate-neutral economy concepts. Highlighting the importance of student engagement and empowerment in driving sustainable practices within schools and communities. Discussing student-led initiatives, project- based learning, and the use of digital tools to inspire students to become active participants in the circular and climate-neutral economy.

This theme recognizes the role of schools in promoting circular practices within communities and empowering students to become active participants in the circular and climate-neutral economy, aligning with the EU’s Education and Training 2020 Strategy ‘s goal of fostering active citizenship and promoting sustainable development through education. Further, as stated in the Digital Education Action Plan, “Digital technologies and digital competence are essential for participation in modern society, where knowledge is increasingly digital.” Moreover, this theme recognizes the importance of student engagement and empowerment in driving sustainable practices within schools and communities, which is in line with the Digital Education Action Plan’s (DEAP) emphasis on fostering active citizenship and digital competences. DEAP states that, “digital education plays a key role in empowering people of all ages to be active citizens and to participate fully in society, through the acquisition of digital skills and competences.” By discussing student-led initiatives, project-based learning, and the use of digital tools to inspire students to become active participants in the circular and climate-neutral economy, the theme aligns with the objective of empowering students to utilize digital technologies for positive change and active citizenship.

Policy and Governance, collaboration, and partnerships in school modernisation:

Addressing the gaps between labour market needs and the delivery of quality education. Exploring challenges, opportunities, and best practices for collaboration between education institutions, local governments, and technology providers. Emphasizing the crucial role of cross-sector collaborations and partnerships among schools, businesses, research institutions, and community organizations to bridge the divide and promote sustainable practices and digital learning in today’s dynamic labour market. By focusing on collaboration between education institutions, local governments, and technology providers, the conference aims to drive positive change, foster partnerships, and address the pressing issues in school modernization and the delivery of relevant education within smart cities.

This theme recognizes the importance highlighted in the European Green Deal, that “it requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including national, regional, and local authorities, civil society, industry, and citizens.” Thus, it focuses on discussing challenges, opportunities, and best practices for such cross-sectorial collaboration reflecting the importance of fostering partnerships and working together to drive positive change in school modernization and sustainability efforts within smart cities. By exploring these interconnected themes, the conference aims to inspire innovative ideas, share experiences, and foster collaboration to create smart, sustainable schools within circular cities while harnessing the potential of digital learning.

Schedule

8:30 – 9.00        Registration

9.00 – 9.20        Welcoming Statements

  • Stavros MILIONIS, CEO, KEAN
  • Domna MICHAILIDOU, Deputy Minister for Education, Religious Affairs and Sport Christos KELLAS, President of the Standing Committee on Cultural and Educational Affairs, Hellenic Parliament
  • Prof Michail SFAKIANAKIS, Rector of University of Piraeus
  • Jorge GIMENO PAWLOWSKI, Chairman of the Board, Center for Innovative Education

9.20 – 10.40     I Panel: Policy and Governance, collaboration and partnerships in school modernisation.

What are the main challenges in addressing the gaps between labour market needs and the delivery of quality education in the context of school modernization? What opportunities exist for collaboration between education institutions, local governments, and technology providers to bridge the divide and ensure relevant education? What are the key roles and responsibilities of each stakeholder group (education institutions, local governments, technology providers, etc.) in driving positive change for school modernization? How can smart city initiatives and the principles outlined in the European Green Deal contribute to the collaboration efforts in school modernization and sustainability? How can data and technology be leveraged to enhance collaboration, identify labour market needs, and deliver quality education in a more efficient and effective manner?

Moderated by Joanna BOCHNIARZ, General Director, Center for Innovative Education

  • Yannis MANIATIS, Professor | Director MSc Program in Climate Crisis and Information and Communication Technologies, Department of Digital Systems, University of Piraeus, Greece
  • Loukas ZAHILAS, Head of the Department for VET and Qualifications in CEDEFOP
  • Eirini SAMPSON, PhD Researcher, Imperial College, UK | Onassis Scholar | EU Climate Pact Ambassador | Founder, Sustainability for Students
  • YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE

10.40 – 10.50   Mentor2.0 presentation by Miriam Lanzetta, Project Manager, PMP®, GPM-bTM. PM Consultant & Instructor Lascò

10.50 – 11.20    Networking break

11.20 – 12.50   Panel II: Smart Cities for Sustainable Schools

How can smart city initiatives be effectively integrated into schools to promote sustainable practices and create environmentally friendly learning environments? How can teachers and educators be supported in integrating smart city concepts and sustainability education into their curriculum and teaching practices? What professional development opportunities and resources are available to empower teachers in this regard? What are the challenges and opportunities in implementing smart city initiatives in schools?

Moderated by Alexandros BREGIANNIS, Public Sector & ICT Executive Director at NOVA

  • Demetrios SAMPSON, Professor | Director MSc Program in Digital Learning | Director Research Lab Digital Systems for Learning and Education, Department of Digital Systems, University of Piraeus, Greece
  • Dr Sofoklis SOTIRIOU, Head of R&D Department, Ellinogermaniki Agogi
  • Evangelia SAVVIDOU, Coordinator of the U.N. Sustainable Development Solutions Network -Youth, Black Sea (SDSN Youth Black Sea) | Medical Doctor
  • YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE

12.50 – 14.40 Lunch break

14.40 – 16.10   Panel III: Digital Learning Empowering Students as Agents of Change

What role can digital technologies play in enhancing sustainability education in schools within the context of smart cities? How can artificial intelligence, virtual reality, online platforms, and collaborative tools be leveraged to engage students in circular economy concepts? How can students be actively involved in driving sustainable practices within schools and communities? What are some student-led initiatives or projects that have successfully promoted sustainability and circularity?

Moderated by Andreas RIEPL, eEducation, Federal Ministry of Education, Austria

  • Dr Martin DOUGIAMAS, CEO & Founder, Moodle, Australia & Honorary Doctor, Department of Digital Systems, University of Piraeus, Greece (online)
  • Dr Christina KONTOGOULIDOU, Head of International Relations Office, University of Piraeus, Greece
  • Maria GKOUNTOUMA, EU Policy Assistant, EAC.C4, Digital Education, European Commission, Brussels, Belgium
  • YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE

16.10 – 16.25  Questions from the audience

16.25 – 16.40 Summary and closing remarks

  • Stavros MILIONIS, CEO, KEAN
  • Joanna BOCHNIARZ, CEO, Center for Innovative Education

 

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