Course Schedule

Core Activities

Day 1:

Introduction to STPM and building connections

Begin with an active introduction to the STPM approach, highlighting Iceland’s innovation in education, sustainability, and technology.   Introduce digital tools for sharing resources.  Explore Iceland’s unique cultural and educational heritage through "The Icelandic Corner" and connect with new European colleagues through engaging ice breaking activities and a relaxed social event.

Day 2:

Creative classrooms with project-based learning and digital tools

Discover how to create engaging, student-centered classrooms through project-based learning and digital tools. Explore strategies for involving students in shaping their projects and curriculum, fostering creativity and ownership. Gain practical insights into using digital tools to enhance collaboration, innovation, and learning outcomes in dynamic classroom environments.

Day 3:

School visit and co-constructing learning

Visit a school in Reykjavík to observe project-based learning (PBL) in action and explore how democratic principles are integrated into the classroom. Participate in a workshop that empowers you to co-construct learning experiences, fostering collaboration, student voice, and active participation in shaping educational outcomes.

Day 4:

Insights into Icelandic Education and Sustainability

Visit one of Reykjavík’s newest schools, integrating kindergarten, primary, and secondary education. Discover how practical and academic subjects are equally valued, inclusion is a priority, and well-being is integrated into the curriculum.   Witness how outdoor activities rooted in Icelandic heritage build resilience. Explore how democracy and sustainability thinking shape the school community in a positive way.

Day 5:

Enhancing teaching and learning with creative digital tools

Explore innovative ways to apply digital tools in teaching and learning, enhancing creativity and engagement. Discover diverse and imaginative approaches to presenting projects and learn effective strategies for assessing project-based learning. Conclude the day by preparing for collaborative group work, ensuring a productive and impactful final session.

Day 6:

Collaborative project planning

Work in groups to finalise and present your own project-based learning (PBL) plans. This session provides an opportunity to apply the tools, strategies, and insights gained throughout the course, fostering collaboration and creativity. Share your ideas with peers, receive constructive feedback, and refine your plans for real-world classroom implementation.

Day 7: Icelandic Thermal Wellness, Geothermal Sustainability and Reflective Practice

Participants begin with a short seminar on Icelandic thermal bathing traditions, exploring the role of geothermal energy, sustainability, wellbeing, equality, and screen-free social connection in Icelandic culture. The day continues with a guided visit to a local thermal swimming pool and hot tubs, where participants experience an important aspect of Icelandic daily life: gathering together in warm geothermal waters despite the cold outdoor climate, engaging in open conversation where every voice is valued, and learning about local customs of hygiene, trust, and shared social spaces, including the longstanding tradition of showering thoroughly without swimwear before entering the pools. Structured reflection and mindfulness activities encourage participants to connect these experiences to the course themes and their own personal and professional development.