EDUREFORM: Mitigate the Impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on Indian Society: Education Reform for Future and In-service School Teachers.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) represents a convergence of advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of Things, and other technologies. This technological wave is ushering in significant changes in how we live, work, and are governed. A joint report from a partnership between a city and Oxford University in 2016 estimated that approximately 57% of jobs are susceptible to automation. According to research from the McKinsey Global Institute, artificial intelligence has the potential to replace up to 800 million jobs by 2030.

As highlighted by economists Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee, this revolution may exacerbate inequality, particularly by disrupting labor markets. With the increasing adoption of automation, artificial intelligence is poised to replace human workers across a wide range of industries and sectors. Martin Ford, in his book "The Rise of the Robots: Technology and the Threat of a Jobless Future," asserts that the jobs most vulnerable to automation are those characterised by routine, repetitive, and predictable tasks, as these can be replicated through machine learning algorithms.

The consortium members of the EDUREFORM project are actively involved in various endeavours aimed at lessening the influence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on Indian society and driving educational reform through the training of both prospective and current teachers. The primary objective is to foster critical, creative, and analytical thinking skills within secondary schools, thereby preparing the Indian youth to effectively navigate the ever-evolving and rigorous demands of the job market. Coordinated by Chitkara University, the consortium partners of EDUREFORM project co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, is comprises of four Indian Universities- Chitkara University(Punjab); The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda(Gujarat); Savitribai Phule Pune University(Maharashtra); Shivaji University(Kolhapur), four European Universities- University of Latvia(Riga); University of Hamburg( Germany); JAMK University of Applied Sciences(Finland); Italian University Line(Italy); as well as two Secondary schools- Chitkara International School(North India); Liceo artistico, coreutico e musicale Candiani-Bausch(Italy) and one SME- CXS Solutions(Kerala), having expertise in the field of education.

Exploring the EDUREFORM CURRICULA: 22 Innovative Pedagogical Tools

The EDUREFORM project acknowledges the significance of nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and analytical abilities, particularly in a time marked by rapid technological advancements and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. These proficiencies are vital for individuals to excel in a swiftly transforming job market and to effectively address intricate problems. By advocating for the integration of these competencies within the classroom setting, the EDUREFORM project seeks to furnish students with the requisite skills to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape. Therefore, the innovative curricula plays a pivotal role in ensuring that upcoming generations are well-prepared to confront the challenges presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The EDUREFORM Innovative Curricula now forms an integral part of the B.Ed, M.Ed, and PhD (Education) programs at Chitkara University. To access these curricula, please click the link below:

Unveiling The Dynamic Initiatives of The Edureform Project

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  Edureform First Empowerment Camp

  On the 26th and 27th of November 2021, Chitkara University, Punjab, hosted the EDUREFORM First Empowerment Camp, which marked the meeting of Indian partners to discuss the project's objectives and goals. All the members were warmly welcomed by Chitkara University's faculty members and staff. Although the European partners were absent, the Indian EDUREFORM partners were elated to finally meet each other without a screen separating them.

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  Edureform Student Mobility

  Chitkara University hosted the EDUREFORM student mobility program for 21 days from 24th April to 14th May 2023. Sixteen shortlisted students from partnering universities, including The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Savitribai Phule Pune University, and Shivaji University, participated in various activities organised by Chitkara. Through interactive activities and group discussions, the students had the opportunity to reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, identifying areas for improvement. The activities aimed to develop their skills and knowledge in the field of education.

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  Edureform Vocational Training

  Chitkara University hosted the 3-day EDUREFORM vocational training from 3rd to 5th May 2023. The training was organised for in-service secondary school teachers. Master trainers from partnering universities presented ten shortlisted pedagogical tools. The training provided valuable teaching techniques to educators, enabling them to incorporate these tools into their teaching methods effectively. The focus was on preparing students to face the challenges of the 4th Industrial Revolution.

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  Edureform Book Launch

  On 6th May 2023, the "EDUREFORM Handbook for Innovative Pedagogy" was officially launched. A team of experts from Indian and European universities worked meticulously to promote innovative teaching-learning tools and aids that in-service teachers can incorporate to reform the educational journey of Generation Z and Alpha learners. The book launch event was graced by Hon. Dr Madhu Chitkara, Dr Niyati Chitkara, and Dr Stefano Greco.

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  Edureform Expo

  Following the book launch, the EDUREFORM Expo was organised with the aim of promoting innovative teaching-learning tools and enhancing skills such as analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. Various universities showcased their tools using audio-visual means. The exhibition was visited by in-service teachers, staff, and students of Chitkara, who highly appreciated the displayed innovations.

• EDUREFORM International Conference: Re-Thinking Education in the Age of AI

  Chitkara University hosted a two-day EDUREFORM international conference on November 22 and 23, 2023 addressing the theme Re-thinking education in the age of AI. The inaugural day of the EDUREFORM International Conference, hosted by Chitkara University on November 22, 2023, marked the beginning of a transformative discourse on the future of education. The event commenced with a warm welcome, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the conference's commitment to shedding light on innovative educational practices. The opening remarks, delivered by Mr. Massimiliano Bizzocchi and Prof. Dr. Archana Mantri, set the stage for a day of enlightenment. Hon’ble Dr. Vijay Kumar Srivastava's video message added a global perspective, emphasizing the conference's significance.

  Dr. Sangeeta Pant's presentation on project achievements showcased the evolving landscape of education. A significant highlight was the inauguration of the Indian-European Alliance for Education, formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The launch of a special issue journal, "Re-Thinking Education in the Age of AI," added an academic dimension, fostering scholarly exchange between continents. Ms. Gisella Langé's talk on education, innovation, and international cooperation set the stage for panel discussions. The first panel, moderated by Dr. Vani Parwez, emphasized fostering partnerships for a more inclusive and globally aware educational system. Dr. Letizia Cinganotto's expert talk on the historical role of technology in education paved the way for a panel discussion exploring technology's transformative journey. Approximately 500 participants from various schools and universities attended, engaging in dynamic discussions throughout the day.

  Day 2: Excellence and Innovation Unveiled

  The second day showcased educational excellence and innovation through expert talks, paper presentations, and engaging sessions. Track 1 focused on 'Teaching Pedagogies Transforming Education,' featuring standout papers like Ms. Nidhi Waldia's on "Microlearning strategies for teacher professional development."Track 2, chaired by Dr. Gipson Varghese, explored "Technology and Education," featuring an expert talk by Dr. Letizia Cinganotto. Track 3 centered on "Applied Education," with Vidyanand Khandagale's paper on mitigating the impact of the digital divide. Track 4, themed "Innovative Education," celebrated Dr. Niyati Chitkara and team for their paper on “Assessing curricular and co-curricular areas of learning through multi-perspective teaching.” A poster competition highlighted 41 entries, with Ms. Alisha Vashisht securing the top spot and winning a cash prize of Rs. 40,000. The day concluded with a session by Dr. Swaroop Sampat Rawal on holistic education, followed by Dr. Madhu Chitkara and Dr. Niyati Chitkara honoring the winners. The event, a confluence of ideas and collaboration, proved to be a valuable experience, destined to shape the future of education.