Short Biography

I am an Associate Professor at the University of Beira Interior (UBI), Covilhã, Portugal, and my current research interests include software engineering, information systems (with special focus on decision support systems), data fusion and software. I am also a member of the Instituto de Telecomunicações - IT in Secure and Intelligent Networked Software Systems, {////} sins-lab, and an IEEE Senior Member.

My Story of empowerment

I am currently involved in the FIT4FUTURE, which is an initiative that aims to revolutionise STEM education in higher education by equipping educators with advanced skills in long-term future forecasting and strategic planning. This comprehensive approach, using AI technologies, will ensure that teachers can predict future trends and prepare their students for these eventualities. This futuristic project fills a critical gap in traditional education curricula, which often focus on short- and medium-term planning, by emphasising long-term strategic foresight. One of the key features of this project is its e-learning platform, accessible at https://befit4future.eu/learning/. This platform offers a series of modules covering the basics of LTFS, different development methodologies, real-life applications and additional teaching resources. The inclusion of an AI module to help create fictional scenarios is particularly innovative, as it provides educators with practical tools to enhance their courses and engage students in meaningful learning experiences. This AI-based scenario generator aims to simplify the creation and exploration of future scenarios, offering customisable options to suit different educational and professional contexts.By integrating this tool into their practice, educators and professionals can significantly enhance their strategic foresight and better prepare for potential future developments.This not only improves individual preparedness, but also contributes to a more resilient and forward-looking workforce.emphasise

With this project we try to emphasise the development of a curriculum and competence framework that includes LTFS. This curriculum aims to provide STEM educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to introduce LTFS into their teaching portfolio. The project promotes innovation in STEM education by incorporating a long-term perspective into the teaching of strategic management. This, in turn, enhances the employability of students by equipping them with the skills needed to navigate the uncertainties of the high-tech industry of the future.

In addition to its educational impact, we believe it can carry wider social and economic benefits. By promoting long-term strategic planning skills, it contributes to personal and professional empowerment. Educators and students alike gain the ability to make informed decisions, fostering a sense of self-reliance and confidence. This empowerment can lead to greater social cohesion and development, as individuals are better prepared to engage with and contribute to their communities.

The project's focus on inclusivity ensures that these advanced educational opportunities are accessible to a wide range of people. By making the tools and resources of long-term strategic planning available to a wide audience, FIT4FUTURE is helping to bridge educational gaps and promote equality. This inclusivity is essential to building a more equal and inclusive society, where everyone has the opportunity to prepare for and thrive in the future.