The FUTURE EDUCATION Conference 2024 in retrospect

The conference offered an inspiring platform for interdisciplinary exchange and was a meeting place for experts and innovators who are dedicated to the challenges of the modern educational landscape.

4 research clusters

The conference focused on the four research clusters of the FUTURE EDUCATION project, which highlighted the different facets and perspectives of tomorrow's education:

1. plurality and diversity in educational processes

Here, the need to take diverse life realities into account in educational processes and to create inclusive learning environments that involve all learners with their individual needs was emphasized.

2. language as a tool for social participation

This cluster highlighted how language acts not only as a means of communication, but also as a key to social participation and inclusion. The focus was on the role of language as a bridge between different social groups.

3. Educational technology(s): interdisciplinary, innovative, disruptive

This cluster impressively demonstrated how modern educational technologies are changing or even revolutionizing the education sector and giving rise to new learning methods and platforms. The integration of digital technologies and the examination of their potential opportunities and risks were discussed intensively against the backdrop of empirical data.

4. STEM+ for the sustainable development of our society

The importance of the STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) for a sustainable future was the central theme of this cluster. It became clear that a sound education in these disciplines can make an important contribution to solving global challenges such as climate protection.

1 common thread

With a total of 150 academic contributions, the conference impressively illustrated how crucial the examination of the past and present is for shaping future-oriented education. A recurring theme that came up in many presentations and discussions was the importance of learning from past experiences and findings in order to develop innovative approaches that meet the dynamic demands of the future. It was repeatedly emphasized that education does not take place in a vacuum, but is closely linked to social, technological, ecological and economic developments. In the discussions, the participants emphasized how important it is to critically question the tried and tested, to orient oneself towards new findings and to formulate forward-looking educational strategies that promote both technological innovation and social justice.

Endless new ideas

A particular highlight of the conference was the international and interdisciplinary composition of the participants. The exchange between the various specialist disciplines and cultural groups proved to be extremely fruitful and laid the foundation for future collaborations. The numerous opportunities for informal discussions and networking - be it during the breaks with local products and a cup of coffee or in specially designed communication rooms - were used intensively by the participants to make new contacts and plan joint projects.

The FUTURE EDUCATION Conference 2024 not only made an important contribution to the discussion about the education of the future, but also opened up new perspectives and partnerships. We look forward with great anticipation to the future developments and collaborations that will emerge from this inspiring conference.

A big thank you to all those who contributed to the success of the conference in front of, behind and next to the stage!

EARLI 2025/JURE 2025 will take place at the University of Graz in fall 2025. The next FUTURE EDUCATION Conference is planned for 2026. We look forward to seeing you again at these conferences!