SPRING SCHOOL ON SUSTAINABILITY AND DEMOCRACY IN STEM TEACHER EDUCATION
Our Mission: A Learning Journey from Disciplinary Knowledge to Transformative Teaching
How can future STEM educators contribute to a sustainable and democratic society? How can subject-specific knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics be translated into educational practices that empower learners to shape the future?
The international Spring School invites teacher education students to take part in a mission-based learning journey. Through scientific and educational input, interdisciplinary collaboration, and co-creative design sessions, participants explore the role of STEM education in tackling global challenges.
The Spring School is part of the DAAD-funded project "Empowering STEM Educators: Future Literacies in International Teacher Education".
WHAT TO EXPECT?
- Thematic impulses from STEM disciplines, educational theory, and sustainability science
- Interactive workshops on planetary boundaries, civic engagement, and future-oriented teaching
- Guided learning labs to co-develop digital teaching materials and classroom activities
- Visits to the Haus der Astronomie in Heidelberg and the KLIMA ARENA in Sinsheim
WHY JOIN?
- Take part in a mission-based, interdisciplinary, international learning experience!
- Connect your subject expertise to societal challenges and educational innovation!
- Develop and take home concrete teaching resources!
- Earn recognition towards optional qualifications or relevant modules at your home university!
- Become part of a cross-border professional learning community!
WHO CAN APPLY?
- Students in teacher education programmes (Bachelor’s/Master’s) specialising in STEM subjects (e.g. physics, geography, computer science, biology, chemistry)
- Master’s degree students with a focus on STEM didactics, sustainability education, or civic learning
- Participants from Heidelberg University, and HSE/DAAD partner universities such as Teachers College (Columbia University), the University of Jyväskylä, PUC Valparaíso, and the 4EU+ Alliance
REGISTRATION
Participation is limited. For more information, please refer to the call for participation (application deadline: 15 December 2025).
Registration is only binding once you have received written confirmation from the organising team.
Participation in the Spring School is free of charge. Drinks and meals are included.
Travel support of € 250 per person is available for all registered international students. Please contact your local International Office and/or the local 4EU+ Alliance Office to find out if you are eligible for additional funding from your home university.
CREDITS
Full participation in the Spring School is required to receive credit (2 ECTS). You may be able to receive academic recognition within selected modules (e. g. sustainability qualification track or STEM didactics) at your home institution. Heidelberg students should contact the organisers for further details. International participants are advised to contact their home university's academic office for detailed regulations.
The Spring School programme will be delivered in English.
Let’s rethink the role of STEM education for a just and sustainable future – together in Heidelberg!
