To increase the competencies of teachers and educators in delivering innovative student-centred STEAM learning pathways for young people 6-14 y.o. To increase students’ interest and motivation in STEAM fields and careers with particular attention to fewer opportunities for young people and with a particular focus on encouraging their engagement in new space-related careers. To facilitate the creation of a STEAM activity-based network for schools, institutional stakeholders in the field of education, civil society and organizations to align STEAM educational practices with the European Union's objectives of sustainable development and growth
The SPACE*Lab initiative was launched to address STEM underperformance in EU students, promoting an inventive teaching approach for primary schools. It actively engaged educators and institutions to develop a European community of practice. The European Commission (EC) recognizes enhancing STEM skills as crucial for sustainable EU recovery. Evidence links STEM skill shortages to Member States' high unemployment (Encourage STEM Studies, Directorate General for Internal Policies, 2015). SPACE*Lab addressed the needs of 1) primary school educators in six countries, enhancing their Continuous Professional Development (CPD) with innovative practices and sustainable tools focused on STEM and space; 2) EU primary students (6-14 years), inspiring early interest in STEM and addressing underperformance in young girls. Stimulating activities aimed at shifting mindsets toward STEM, showcasing inspirational EU professionals; 3) EU primary schools, fostering innovative STEM curricula and a community of practice for teachers to sustain activities and open dialogue with civil society.