History has always been a crucial subject in education, helping students understand the past and its impact on the present. On July 28, 2023, a significant event took place in Vac, Hungary, where educators, researchers, and enthusiasts gathered to discuss a groundbreaking Transnational Project focused on enhancing history education. The event, organized under the Erasmus + peoject "S.P.Q.R Schools and the People of Europe", was a vital step towards revolutionizing the way Ancient Rome is taught and understood.
Erasmus+ and the Power of Collaboration
The project, funded by Erasmus+ School Education, is a collaborative effort between several partners, including the Interactive Bulgaria Foundation, European Schools Brussels IV, Asociatia Culturala Tomis from Romania, and Familia Gladiatoria Egyesület from Hungary, among others. The Interactive Bulgaria Foundation, serving as the project's coordinator, has led the charge to bring together passionate educators and organizations from different countries.
Aims and Objectives
The core objectives of the project revolve around engaging students of all levels in history, citizenship education, and classical studies. With a specific focus on Ancient Rome, the project aims to develop innovative teaching methodologies and curriculum through the use of interactive technologies, particularly virtual reality (VR). By leveraging living history events and digital resources, the project seeks to make the study of history more captivating and immersive for students.
Structured Approach: Working Packages and Activities
The project is divided into distinct working packages, each contributing to the overarching goal of creating an enriched educational experience. These packages cover various aspects, such as project management, curriculum development, content creation, and networking. Notably, the project envisions the development of at least 20 Open Educational Resources (OERs) in VR format, allowing students to virtually explore the world of Ancient Rome.
Living History and Digital Immersion
One of the standout features of the project is the implementation of two Roman living history events, meticulously organized by experts in Bulgaria and Austria. These events will transport participants back in time, offering an authentic experience of Ancient Rome. To enhance the educational impact, 360⁰ videos and photos will be captured during the events, contributing to the creation of immersive VR-based learning resources.
Networking and Dissemination
The project places a strong emphasis on networking and collaboration. Through the establishment of the European Youth SPQR Network, partners aim to foster meaningful interactions among students, educators, and stakeholders. Additionally, the project will host transnational project meetings and multiplier events to share insights and outcomes with a wider audience.
Future Prospects
As the project progresses, key milestones are set for the next phases. Methodology development, curriculum refinement, and event reconstruction are slated for the upcoming months. The integration of advanced VR technology into the education landscape is a pivotal step that holds the potential to reshape the way history is taught across Europe.
In an age where technological innovations continue to transform education, the S.P.Q.R Schools and the People of Europe project stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and immersive learning experiences. Through their combined efforts, these dedicated partners are paving the way for a more engaging and enriching history education for generations to come.