Mathematics plays a pivotal role across various scientific disciplines, serving as a strategic key in the development of societies worldwide. Despite its significance, many students find mathematics courses to be challenging, hindering their understanding of diverse topics within the subject. Recognizing the importance of mathematical literacy for success in professional and social life, the EU Commission emphasizes the need for high-quality, innovative, and inclusive education throughout Europe.

The current situation in the EU, where over 20% of young Europeans fail to reach a minimum level of basic skills in mathematics and science, is cause for concern. To combat this issue, specific actions and initiatives are necessary, as highlighted by the EU Commission's commitment to fostering high-quality education.

The E=MD^2 project is a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing the mathematical skills of young students while fostering inclusivity in the classroom. The initiative focuses on employing diverse teaching methods to increase motivation among students who often find mathematics difficult and disconnected from everyday life.

The main objectives of the project are: 

• Excellence in Mathematics and Inclusion: The project seeks to achieve excellence in mathematics education while promoting inclusion in the classroom.
• Performance Improvement for Students with Disabilities: Special attention is given to improving the performance of students with disabilities.
• Empowering Mathematics Teachers: The project aims to raise the profile of mathematics teachers by sharing knowledge about mathematics and inclusive classrooms.

The primary target groups include secondary school students and teachers, STEAM VET professionals and teachers, as well as municipalities, media, and policymakers.

The consortium is formed by three organizations: Open Europe (NGO in Reus, Spain), Cyprus Mathematical Society, and Goce Decev University in Stip, Republic of North Macedonia. Additionally, four schools—Municipality Primary School ILINDEN in RNM, Scoala Gimnaziala Ion Agarbiceanu Alba Iulia in Romania, Osnovna skola Vodice in Croatia, and Institut Julio Antonio in Spain—contribute to the collaborative effort.

Over the two-year duration of the project, partners have developed an educational platform. This platform includes results and analyses of surveys conducted among teachers, students, and parents, collecting firsthand information about students' needs. Additionally, it offers a collection of best practices, a methodology for implementing e-debates in the classroom, lesson plans for STEAM classrooms, and an online course, all available in six languages: English, Spanish, Macedonian, Romanian, Greek, and Croatian—free of charge to anyone interested in the topic.

A noteworthy component of the project focuses on working with students from vulnerable groups, including those with mild intellectual disabilities such as dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and mathematical anxiety. The innovative approach involves peer teaching and assistance, team-based activities, and debates to increase motivation and achieve better results. The project strongly advocates for diversity teams in an inclusive classroom, promoting the use of information and communication technology (ICT) to enhance the learning process.

The E=MD^2 project is a beacon for inclusive math education that addresses the challenges faced by students and teachers alike. Through collaborative efforts and innovative approaches, the project aims to support children with different learning needs and promote a culture of excellence, inclusion and motivation in math education.

For more information about the project: https://excellenceinmath.eu/