From January 9-12, 2024, the EduGame project officially launched with a productive and collaborative Kick-off Meeting at Vytautas Magnus University in Kaunas, Lithuania. This pivotal gathering brought together key representatives from partner universities across Europe and North Africa to discuss the project’s objectives, milestones, and critical tasks for the upcoming years.
The meeting began with a comprehensive presentation from project coordinator Judita Kasperiuniene (VMU), who outlined the EduGame project’s main goals, tasks, and deliverables. The timeline for key project milestones, including M16 (January 2024) and several others slated for completion by April 2024, was stressed. Kasperiuniene emphasized the importance of meeting deadlines to ensure smooth project progression, and the group agreed to prioritize tasks such as curriculum updates, research, and teacher training initiatives.
The focus then shifted to curriculum development, with presentations from several partners. Lilia Cheniti Belcahdi (SU) introduced plans for a Master’s in Computer Science, while Mondher Merji (UJ) outlined updates for a BA in Primary School Education. Other presentations included Emina Junuz (UNMO), who discussed potential changes for the BA in English Language, Vildana Pečenković (UNBI), who proposed enhancements for a BA in Bosnian Language and Literature, MA History presented by Andi Pinari (UT) , and MA Primary school teacher presented by Altin Idrizi (UNIEL).
To address potential challenges, the consortium discussed strategies for mitigating risks, such as adapting curriculum regulations in Tunisia and ensuring sufficient student recruitment in remote areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania.
Next, Natalija Mazeikiene (VMU) and Filomena Faiella (UNISA) presented the project’s Quality Evaluation Plan. They explained how the project’s success will be measured, using key performance indicators to monitor progress and adherence to timelines. The consortium decided to finalize the draft version of the evaluation plan by March 30, 2024.
The meeting also covered strategies for spreading awareness of the project. Natalija Mazeikiene outlined plans to launch the EduGame website by March 2024, ensuring timely dissemination of information to stakeholders. The consortium also discussed developing a graphical identity for the project, including a logo and templates, which will be unveiled alongside the project website.
Olga Avramenko (VMU) highlighted the need to finalize Consortium Agreements by the end of January, which will formalize roles and responsibilities across the partnership. Budget concerns were also addressed, with an emphasis on transparency and equitable resource distribution to ensure the project’s long-term financial sustainability.
Jordi Linares-Pellicer (UPV) shared insights on best practices in serious gaming, which will inform future phases of the project. Meanwhile, Vildana Pečenković (UNBI) presented findings from a stakeholder survey, which will help shape project implementation. The consortium agreed to continue discussions on these topics during the upcoming internship in Spain.
Looking Ahead: Internship in Spain
The meeting concluded with exciting plans for the first short internship, scheduled for April 2024 in Alcoy, Spain. Led by Jordi Linares-Pellicer, this internship will focus on serious games, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence, offering valuable training for consortium members.
Next Meeting: Internship & Managers’ Meeting, April 15-19, 2024, Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain.
