STEM Learning by Practice. The GLOBE Experience

The University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and located in the historic city of Coimbra, is one of Europe’s oldest universities and a UNESCO cultural landmark. With about 25,580 students, including roughly 4,351 international students, the university blends centuries of academic tradition with a vibrant, international campus life. Its historic colleges, libraries and concert halls coexist with modern research centers across disciplines from law and humanities to engineering and biomedical sciences.

Coimbra offers a broad academic portfolio with strong research output, international exchange programs and multidisciplinary centers that foster innovation. The university is especially well known for its law, arts, social sciences and health faculties, and it participates actively in Erasmus and global partnerships that facilitate study abroad and collaborative research. Students benefit from structured academic advising, language support and numerous cultural activities tied to the city’s student traditions.

Student life is shaped by rich traditions, lively academic societies and a compact city layout that makes it easy to combine study and cultural exploration. International students enjoy access to modern facilities, research opportunities and a welcoming community with a strong focus on academic excellence and cultural exchange. For those seeking a historically rich European university experience with robust research networks and an active international student community, the University of Coimbra offers a compelling academic and cultural environment.

The STEM Learning by Practice program at the University of Coimbra is a non-degree course for primary and secondary school teachers and trainers from science centers. It is taught in English and lasts for a year. This program focuses on using the GLOBE Program to enhance STEM education through practical activities.

Participants learn to implement GLOBE protocols for the biosphere and aquatic environments. The curriculum emphasizes field data collection and the use of advanced technologies in the classroom. By the end of the course, trainees develop skills in scientific instrumentation and Earth Observation data, preparing them to engage students in meaningful STEM activities.

Graduates of this program can work as STEM educators, science center trainers, or educational consultants. They can work in schools, science centers, and other educational settings. The skills gained are transferable, allowing graduates to adapt to different environments and contribute to the advancement of STEM education.