ILE Researchers Bring Virtual Reality, AI, Digital Wellbeing and Sustainability Gaming to Tainionmäki School in Kivijärvi

During the event, more than 100 participants, including students from Grades 1–9 and their teachers, explored how emerging technologies can enrich classroom learning. Pupils had the opportunity to experience virtual reality using VR headsets, travelling to immersive virtual environments and discovering how VR can support teaching across different subjects. The VR glasses were provided by the ViReal4STEM project, which aims to encourage girls and underrepresented groups in science studies to consider new career options.

In addition to virtual reality, participants experimented with a range of artificial intelligence tools and discussed how AI can be used responsibly to support learning and creativity in schools in the AIWARE project. Students also explored STEAMCRAFT, an educational Minecraft modification developed to teach sustainability through interactive gameplay. Using the mod, pupils investigated environmental challenges, renewable energy, recycling and sustainable decision-making in a virtual world while developing problem-solving and collaboration skills.

As part of the event, participants also experienced nature environments developed within the PERMAdigital and ISLE Projects, exploring ways to support well-being, relaxation and stress relief. The calming nature spaces demonstrate the potential of immersive technologies and learning environment design to not only enhance learning but also promote mental well-being in educational settings.

The event also served as a dissemination activity for several Erasmus+ initiatives coordinated by the University of Jyväskylä, including the ViReal4STEM Project, STEAMcraft, PERMAdigital, AIWARE, InclusiveFuture Project and the ISLE Project. Alongside school pupils, many in-service teachers participated in the activities, providing valuable feedback on the educational technologies and pedagogical approaches demonstrated during the day. 

The visit formed part of the projects' dissemination and consultation activities, enabling researchers to gather insights from both teachers and students while showcasing innovative approaches to STEM education, sustainability, artificial intelligence, immersive learning and well-being. The enthusiastic participation of learners of all ages highlighted the growing interest in emerging technologies as tools for supporting engaging, inclusive and future-oriented education. 

The ILE research group would like to extend its sincere thanks to the staff, teachers and students of Tainionmäen koulu for the warm welcome and enthusiastic participation. It was a pleasure to spend the day together and showcase educational innovations in such a beautiful school environment.

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ViReal4STEM is an Erasmus+ project that promotes inclusive and equitable STEM education through virtual and immersive learning technologies. The project develops innovative teaching approaches that increase engagement, motivation and participation in STEM subjects, with a particular focus on supporting underrepresented groups, including girls.

STEAMcraft is an Erasmus+ project that uses a custom Minecraft modification to teach sustainability, renewable energy and smart city concepts through game-based learning. By combining experiential pedagogy, gamification and hands-on problem solving, the project helps primary school students develop systems thinking, creativity and environmental awareness.

ISLE (Collaborative Learning Communities for Redesigning Primary Education Towards Innovative & Sustainable Learning Environments) supports teachers in creating innovative, inclusive and sustainable learning environments. The project empowers educators through collaboration, professional development and evidence-based pedagogical practices that promote quality education and student well-being.

PERMA-Digital is an Erasmus+ Policy Experimentation project that promotes digital well-being in schools using the PERMA model of positive psychology. The project develops whole-school approaches, teacher training and practical resources that help students and educators build healthy, balanced and meaningful relationships with digital technologies.

AIware is an Erasmus+ project that prepares schools for the growing importance of artificial intelligence by developing curricula, learning materials and teaching resources for AI education. The project supports teachers and students through problem-based learning, open educational resources and practical classroom scenarios that foster AI literacy and responsible use of artificial intelligence.

More information about each of our projects can be found on our main page here (JYU ILE Website).

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.