Cyprus universities join EC programmes for science in society

Three universities in Cyprus are among 180 consortia taking part in 15 projects chosen by the European Commission to promote science in society.
The projects which cover topics such as gender, ethics, classroom innovation and science governance, involve partners come from all 27 member states, five countries associated to the 7th Framework Programme of the European Union and a significant number from outside Europe.
According to the EU Commissioner for Science and Research, Janez PotoÄ?nik: "A better understanding of the role and impact of science in society will help us to find better solutions to the great challenges that our society is facing, now and in the future".
The contribution of the European Commission to the budget of the 15 projects amounts to over EUR 30 mln.
The Public Engagement with Research and Research Engagement with Society (PERARES) project strengthens interaction between researchers and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and citizens in Europe. The partners will jointly organise transnational debates on scientific research, in addition to many local dialogues. PERARES also has three special programmess for setting research agendas: nanotechnology, domestic violence and Roma/Traveller’s issues. Taking part in this project is the European University of Cyprus.
The aim of the second project, the European Science And Technology In Action – Building Links With Industry, Schools And Home (ESTABLISH) is to facilitate and implement an inquiry based approach in teaching and learning of science and technology across Europe. Inquiry based teaching methodologies are encouraged to engage students in science and mathematics by increasing their interest in science and also by stimulating teacher motivation. The project will bridge the gap between the science education research community, science teachers, students, parents, local industry and policy makers. Taking part in this project is the University of Cyprus.
The third project is the Promoting Inquiry Based Mathematics And Science Education Across Europe (PRIMAS) that aims to effect a change across Europe in the teaching and learning of mathematics and science with teachers supported to develop inquiry-based learning (IBL) pedagogies so that students gain experience of IBL approaches.
The design of the project has been focused so as to provide a multi-level dissemination plan addressed to teachers and important stakeholders to ensure maximum impact. The Cypriot participant in this project is the Cyprus University of Technology (TEPAK).