A New Era for the Informatics Education

We are pleased to announce the launch of TINKER, a new innovative three-year project. The aim of the project is to develop and implement an evidence-based pedagogical framework for authentic learning in the teaching of informatics in primary and secondary education through a modern gender-inclusive approach. The theme of the project is directly linked to the findings of the Global Education Monitoring Report (GEM) 2023, which highlights the need for evidence-based, equitable and appropriate applications of technology in education.

Considering the underrepresentation of women and racial minorities in computing, TINKER presents teaching practices that create positive, learner-centred environments that support diversity and encourage the participation of all students. The project also contributes to closing the digital divide by ensuring that the benefits of technology reach all students, particularly those from marginalised groups.

An important milestone of the project was the first meeting of the project implementation team in Groningen, the Netherlands. The meeting focused mainly on sharing valuable information and the findings of the national desk and field research. The findings of the research will be used by the partners to shape the project materials and activities with the ultimate aim of developing innovative teaching methods that meet the needs of teachers and students. During these important discussions, the partners also presented the preliminary version of the TINKER Pedagogical Framework, which aims to help teachers systematically implement authentic learning and gender-inclusive practices.

As the project continues its journey, it promises to set new standards for how technology and education can work together to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment.