March 2024 - First Mobility in Martinique, France– A Transformative Learning Experience

The TPM - Transnational Project meeting  of the Erasmus+ KA220-SCH project "VR & AR – Classroom Transformers" successfully took place in Martinique, France from 10-14 March, hosted by Lycée Professionnel Lumina Sophie Batelière. This mobility marks the beginning of an exciting journey where students and teachers from across Europe engage in innovative digital learning experiences.

A Unique Blend of Culture, Technology, and Environmental Awareness

Participants from Romania, Curaçao, Turkey, Portugal, and Greece joined their French counterparts in a week-long exchange filled with workshops, cultural activities, and hands-on training in Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) applications. The goal was to explore new teaching methodologies while also connecting them to environmental and cultural topics.

Key Highlights of the Mobility:

Day 1: School Presentations & Agricultural Identity

• The first day began with participants presenting their schools and organizations, creating a warm and engaging atmosphere.

• A key focus was on learning about Martinique’s agricultural identity, which was explored in the context of the project's environmental goals.

Day 2: Exploring Digital Innovation & Inclusive Education

• Participants visited Parallel 14, a leading academy specializing in 3D animation, visual effects, and video game design in the Caribbean.

• A highlight was meeting a teacher who contributed to the digital creation of films like The Hobbit, Despicable Me,and Invincibles.

• The group visited Jardin de Balata, a stunning botanical garden that highlights the importance of biodiversity and sustainable landscape management.

• A meeting with the Martinique representative for inclusion in education introduced apps and tools that support students with special needs.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration & Environmental Awareness

• A visit to Maison du Bèlè provided insight into the deep connection between music, dance, and Martinique’s cultural identity.

• A tour of Saint James Sugar Cane Plantation revealed Martinique’s economic and environmental challenges linked to agriculture and rum production.

Day 4: Innovation in Education

• The participants visited Lycée Polyvalent Victor Anicet, a pioneering school in digital education and technology. Students there combine programming, digital design, and professional career goals, making real-world applications of digital skills.

• The visit to the Saint Pierre revealed that volcanos are nature’s superpower, fertilizing the earth and changing people’ life, since in Saint Pierre a whole city disappeared, reminding to us the tremendous power nature has. 

Day 5: Digital Policies & Closing Ceremony

• Each country presented its national digital policies, exploring how VR and AR can be further integrated into classrooms to benefit students, particularly those with special needs.

• Participants attended specialized courses on applying VR/AR in education.

• The final ceremony featured traditional Martinique cuisine, and certificates of participation were awarded to all attendees.

Participants Reflections

“It was an amazing experience! I never thought learning could be so interactive. Using VR in the classroom makes everything feel real!” – Ana, Portugal

“I learned so much about different cultures and how technology can bring us closer together. Can’t wait for the next mobility!” – Livia, Romania

Looking Ahead

This mobility sets the foundation for upcoming exchanges, where participants will further develop VR applications, 3D printing projects, and digital educational tools. The next stop? Romania, where students will work on designing a VR-based classroom transformation guide!

Stay tuned for more updates and follow our journey!