During two productive days, the consortium shared progress, ideas, and next steps to continue advancing the development of virtual reality experiences designed to inspire girls and young women to pursue STEM careers. The partners reviewed the project’s progress, discussed improvements to the virtual scenarios, and explored new ways to make the experience more immersive, inclusive, and motivating for students.
First pilots
In addition, the results of the pilot tests were presented, and ideas were discussed to enhance the interactivity and usability of the VR application, as well as communication strategies to increase the project’s visibility and outreach. One of the most interesting topics discussed during the meeting was the integration of artificial intelligence-generated voices for the app’s characters, adapted to each of the consortium’s languages. The goal is to provide a more realistic and engaging experience, reflecting the diversity of the participating countries.
The VR application
During the stay in Bielsko-Biała, the partners also had the opportunity to test the application at the 4Experience VR Developers facilities. The entire 4Experience team showed great willingness to explain their work and allowed the consortium to immerse themselves in the virtual reality experience, sharing the technical and creative progress of the project.
The partners agreed on the next steps to continue working together and to strengthen ViReal4STEM as an innovative European initiative that combines technology, education, and gender perspective to break stereotypes and promote equality in scientific and technological fields.
Pedagogical framework underway
During the meeting, the partners also began planning the activities of Work Package 3 (WP3): Pedagogical Framework for Gender-Inclusive STEM Education, led by the University of Jyväskylä (Finland). This work package focuses on developing a comprehensive pedagogical framework that will serve as a guide for teachers and educators in promoting more inclusive and equitable STEM learning environments. With these advances, ViReal4STEM continues to strengthen its commitment to gender equality and educational innovation, and we will keep working together to inspire future generations of scientists, engineers, and technologists across Europe.
Thank you for hosting us in beautiful Bielsko-Biała! See you soon!
For more information, please contact project researcher Matias Mäki-Kuutti at mamajuma@jyu.fi
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
