The Human Element in STEM Education: Community, Innovation, and Sustainability
We are delighted to announce that the Call for Abstracts is open for the 2026 SMEC STEM Education Conference, hosted by the Centre for the Advancement of STEM Teaching and Learning (CASTeL) at DCU. This year, we explore how STEM Education can foster a resilient and hopeful future. Addressing global challenges requires us to act together – navigating climate breakdown, biodiversity loss, and the rise of AI with a strong social focus.
We are honored to confirm our keynote speakers:
- Professor Wouter van Joolingen (Utrecht University) A leading expert in scientific literacy, systems thinking, and digital technology in inquiry-based learning.
- Professor Lucy Avraamidou (University of Groningen) Director of the Centre for Learning and Teaching, President of ESERA, Her research focuses on equity, social justice, and diversifying STEM participation.
- Ulrika Sultan (Chalmers University of Technology) Visiting Research Fellow, with expertise in technology from a gender perspective, specialising in girls’ and women’s interest in technology and engineering.
We welcome submissions from educators, researchers, and practitioners across Early Years, Primary, Post-Primary, Further Education, and Higher Education.
Submission Formats: Oral Presentations | Posters | Lightning Talks | Symposia
Please address one of our four integrated strands:
- STEM Education for Planetary Health & Action
- Digital Horizons & Innovation in Education
- Inclusive Communities & Identity in Education
- Innovative Pedagogies & Practice
For full descriptions of these themes, call for papers, submission guidelines, and conference details, please visit our website: 2026 SMEC STEM Education Conference