Project Description

mascil (mathematics and science for life) aims to promote a widespread use of inquiry-based science teaching (IBST) in primary and secondary schools. In addition, we plan to connect mathematics and science education to the world of work.

In a classroom where inquiry-based learning occurs, students take an active role. They pose questions, explore situations, solve problems, find their path to solutions and communicate their results. Inquirybased learning (IBL) can have many faces, dependent on context, target group and learning aims. However, IBL learning approaches all have the shared characteristics of aiming to promote students’ curiosity, engagement and learning in-depth.

Both inquiry-based science teaching and the connection to the world of work will make mathematics and science more meaningful to students. When doing inquiry-based tasks, students work like scientists and by doing so, they acquire competencies they need for their future professional and personal lives as active citizens.

In order to implement inquiry-based teaching and to connect mathematics and science education to the world of work, mascil follows a holistic approach by carrying out a variety of activities, including the development of materials and running professional development courses.

Furthermore, we will work with different target groups, such as teachers, parents, students, school authorities and policy makers. National and European advisory panels will bring together stakeholders to advise partners throughout the project; dialogue with policy makers will be facilitated by workshops and policy papers.

The project mascil is funded by the European Commission and brings together 18 partners from 13 countries. These partners include experts in science and mathematics education, general education and e-learning as well as a journalist.