STEM ОБРАЗОВАНИЕ В УНИВЕРСИТЕТСКА ЕКОСИСТЕМА – РЕЗУЛТАТИ ОТ ОБУЧЕНИЕТО НА СТУДЕНТИ ЧРЕЗ РОБОТИКА И ИГРОВИ ПОДХОДИ

Abstract

The publication presents the results of an approved model for STEM education within a university learning ecosystem, developed by a team from Burgas Free University. The project is implemented in partnership between the Center for Humanities and the Center for Informatics and Technical Sciences, enabling a synthesis of pedagogical and engineering expertise. The main goal of the model is to create a sustainable and innovative learning environment that connects the training of students—future teachers and engineers— with contemporary educational trends and the needs of both teachers and students in primary and lower secondary education. The STEM laboratory functions as a dynamic educational ecosystem where teaching and learning are realized through project-based, problem-based, and experimental learning. Special emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary collaboration and game-based approaches. The analysis of the results shows a significant improvement among students in teamwork skills, pedagogical reflection, and the application of innovative teaching strategies using game-based and experimental methods. The presented observations and conclusions highlight the transformative potential of the university STEM ecosystem as a platform for learning, innovation, and knowledge transfer. It prepares future teachers and engineers, encourages their creativity, and aligns with the strategic directions for the development of STEM education in Bulgaria within the context of Education 5.0—focused on humanization, technological connectivity, and the social engagement of learning.