NUCLIO, founded in 2001, is a non-profit association and Non-Governmental Organization for Development, composed of a group of scientists, researchers, teachers and trainers, specialized in different scientific areas as well as in the areas of educational psychology and science teaching. NUCLIO’s mission is to bring innovation and development in education to all parts of the world and to promote diversity, inclusion, and a holistic and engaging education for all. In this sense, NUCLIO develops, coordinates and participates as a partner in several national and international projects dedicated to innovation in education, and supports teachers and students in their implementation in schools. Being a training center accredited by the Scientific-Pedagogical Council for continuous training of the University of Minho, and coordinator of the international training program Galileo Teacher Training Program, NUCLIO has already reached more than 50 000 teachers from over 120 countries with its training actions. Since the beginning, astronomy has been a vehicle of choice for the team, in its mission to make this world a better place for all, on a planet that seen from space, actually has no borders. We believe that education is the most powerful tool humans have to offer society a cultured, informed, peaceful and respectful way of life.
InovLabs is an educational startup formed by an international team of professionals with backgrounds in science, engineering and product design with experience in arts and who share the same passion for innovation, education and technology. The company’s goal is to advise and support schools and teachers in implementing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) education by providing an integrated ecosystem of products and services to teach STEAM inside and outside the classroom. InovLabs provides and facilitates interdisciplinary projects in schools for all ages and designed according to the national curriculum by offering tutorials and guidance for teachers and students. In addition, it offers all the necessary materials and technical support for STEAM teaching, including technology kits and equipment. InovLabs’ mission is to provide the best possible education for our future generations.
The Change Makers team
Priscila Doran
Priscila graduated in Biology, did a post-graduation in educational psychology and is developing a PhD in the same field. She works at NUCLIO where she develops and coordinates projects in the area of innovative education, and she is also a CCPFC certified trainer. With the vision of a more inclusive education that respects everyone and promotes diversity, Priscila coordinates projects focused on pedagogical innovation, namely, formative and inclusive assessment of students, the use of Design Thinking as part of school dynamics, student-centered learning, STEAM education, Open Schooling philosophy, among others. Priscila loves all kinds of arts and is always willing to embark on creative challenges! She is also currently coordinating the Change Makers project on behalf of NUCLIO, with the aim of involving the whole community in sharing knowledge, making learning an accessible path for everyone who wants it.
Nuno Charneca
Biophysical Engineer and university professor with a PhD in Geographic Information Systems and Geoinformatics, Nuno decided to add his expertise to the mission of improving education in Portugal. He is one of the founding members of InovLabs and dedicates his work to developing STEAM curricula in schools, empowering teachers and students with fundamental knowledge and skills, while developing projects that excite them. Opening the horizons of the students he works with, and embracing their interests, Nuno helps them discover how they can apply them while building prototypes, robots, skateboards, and a variety of products of value to them. He is a CCPFC certified trainer and a strong believer in learning by doing. He coordinates the Change Makers project on behalf of InovLabs, in order to share his STEAM knowledge with anyone who is willing to learn.
David Sousa
David holds a degree in Physics, with master’s degrees in Cognitive Science and Anthropology. He is a researcher in biophysics and social psychology. As a math and physical chemistry tutor, he has extensive experience working with students and a strong desire to enhance education and the way students navigate their learning journey in school. David is a member of the NUCLIO team, coordinating projects in the field of educational innovation, with a special affinity for humanities and environmental protection. He is an integral part of the Change Makers team, ready to support all those who embark on the adventure of learning without fear of making mistakes..
Vera Calado
Vera is a highly skilled 3D designer and graphic artist, boasting a comprehensive 5-year education in 3D Digital Design and Multimedia from ISTEC and Val do Rio Oeiras. She crafts content for social media and conducts workshops in 3D graphic design, vector graphics, and Photoshop, with a focus on 3D printing and laser cutting and engraving applications. Her specialization lies in creating custom logos and designs. Beyond her professional expertise, Vera is deeply passionate about automobiles, motorcycles, photography, and computers. She is an unwavering enthusiast and is always available to assist those looking to venture into the maker world.
Vinícius Oliveira
Vinicius holds a PhD in Physics, specializing in Astronomy and Astrophysics, and has extensive teaching experience, from high school to master’s degrees. He has also spent a significant amount of time working in professional and amateur astronomy. Vinicius is the co-host of a science debate podcast, where he applies his experience in audio editing to produce episodes. At Change Makers, Vinicius focuses on programming, a passion he has nurtured since the age of 10. He has also dedicated himself to 3D printing, creating models related to astronomy and science in general. At the same time, he proficiently uses laser cutters and impressive CNC machines, taking advantage of his programming skills with micro:bit, Arduino and Raspberry Pi.Vinicius recognizes through his professional career that education is the cornerstone of personal and social development.