Education has changed significantly in recent years, mainly due to the entry of new technologies into classrooms around the world, as well as the increasing use of educational robots.

Educational robotics, also known as robotic learning and STEM (Science Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education can optimize the learning experience and develop in young and old, basic computing and problem-solving skills, critical thinking and creativity that are now necessary supplies in the labor market in the new digital age.

In recent years, it seems to be increasingly popular in remote areas, as in addition to being a very good way of developing the above skills, it also offers students the opportunity to stay connected to the rest of the world. Through participation in online robotics clubs and communities, young people can connect with others with whom they share common interests and interact while forming new friendships. At the same time, they can explore different ideas and stay updated on the latest trends in the world of robotics.

In Greece, such educational programs are introduced by Eduact, taking initiatives in the field of modern education and implementing practices aimed at introducing innovation into the educational process.

One of these programs is “Little Scientists in the Municipality of Aristotle”which her educational team has designed Eduactin collaboration with Greek Gold, the company developing the Kassandra Mines in NE Chalkidiki. It is a program that gives the students of the Municipality the opportunity, through the attendance of Educational Robotics and STEAM workshops, to develop those cognitive, social and physical skills, which will be resources for their careers, while at the same time making them responsible citizens of tomorrow.

Through evaluation and feedback from all involved (parents, participants, teachers), it emerges that the program is proven to facilitate learning and introduce students to robotics at a young age, while as students get older, they can perform more complex tasks. Specifically, after the end of the workshops, 67% of the participants over the age of 12 can correctly write the code that will be asked of them, without the guidance of a teacher.

It is indicative that in the 5 years that the program has been implemented in the Municipality of Aristotle, there has been a significant increase in student participation, which proves that children and parents have embraced this initiative. In total:

● In the 2020 – 21 season 31.6% were new participants, the 23.8% participated for the 2nd year and the 44.5% participated for the 3rd year
● In the 2021 – 22 season 20.6% were new participants, while in the 2022-23 season this percentage rose to 21.8% .

The continuation of the program from 2018 until today confirms the practical support of Hellinikons Chrysos in the local community where it operates, exercising a responsible mining activity with multiple benefits for the residents of the area, placing particular emphasis on the new generation and the education sector.