Successful CARS Project Teacher Training in Spain

This October, the CARS Project EU held an intensive three-day teacher training session in Burgos, Spain, hosted by the University of Burgos. Teachers and researchers from Malta, Spain, and Cyprus gathered to explore the pedagogical and technical aspects of incorporating augmented reality (AR) into language learning, aiming to empower students as creators of their own AR stories. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of this incredible training experience.

Day 1: Setting the Stage and Hands-On Introduction to AR

The training officially kicked off on October 7, with our enthusiastic team and participants arriving in Burgos, Spain. Spirits were high, even as some team members navigated the rainy weather with umbrellas in hand! The day started with introductions and a warm welcome from the Universidad de Burgos. Participants delved into initial workshops, where they explored the foundational elements of AR authoring using ZapWorks. These sessions covered essential skills such as setting up projects, managing assets, and using interactive tools to create engaging educational content. See some snapshots from Day 1 here.

Day 2: Deepening Technical Skills and Collaborative Learning

On October 8, the training continued with a focus on practical, hands-on learning. Teachers from partner schools—St. Catherine’s High School (Malta), Colegio Aurelio Gómez Escolar (Spain), and Dimotiko Scholeio Agias Napas (Cyprus)—actively participated in workshops that demonstrated how to bring AR storytelling into their language curricula. Sessions included using 3D models, integrating multimedia elements, and implementing interactive features that make learning more immersive.

The group also visited Colegio Aurelio Gómez Escolar, where they observed students and educators using AR in real-time. This visit provided valuable insights into how AR can transform the classroom experience, fostering greater student engagement and creativity.

Day 3: Media Engagement and Wrapping Up

The final day of the training, October 9, was both inspiring and productive. The day began with the team's appearance on the “Burgos on the Air” podcast, where they discussed the CARS Project’s origins, ongoing work, and the potential for AR to reshape language learning. Teachers had the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session, sharing their experiences and discussing challenges and solutions for implementing AR in their classrooms. Stay tuned for the podcast release to hear the full discussion.

As the sessions concluded, participants reflected on the skills and strategies they had gained over the three days. With newfound confidence and practical insights, they are now equipped to use AR to empower their students to create and share stories. A huge thank you goes out to Universidad de Burgos for hosting and organizing such a successful event, and to all our partners, including CYENS Centre of Excellence, for their invaluable contributions.

Media and Resources

This event was also featured on Newspoint, where the University of Malta shared insights into the project’s progress and the impact of this teacher training. We are excited to see how this innovative technology will be used in classrooms to enhance storytelling and language learning.

With the conclusion of this face-to-face training in Burgos, the CARS Project EU is one step closer to transforming education with augmented reality. Our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved, and we look forward to seeing how teachers apply their new skills to inspire the next generation of young storytellers.