PARAGON: Education, Technology, Communications (Greece)
PARAGON-eduTech is a pioneering civil non-profit organization established in February 2022, dedicated to transforming the landscape of education through the innovative use of technology. With a mission centered on fostering understanding, trust, and empathy, PARAGON-eduTech aims to propel education into the future by embracing digital transformation and promoting inclusive learning environments.
The organization is deeply involved in a broad spectrum of activities across various educational domains. One of its primary goals is to explore the transformative role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in reshaping educational practices, curriculum design, and learning environments. This includes a strong emphasis on e-learning and online education, where PARAGON-eduTech investigates innovative approaches, best practices, and the challenges associated with delivering education through digital platforms.
PARAGON-eduTech is also at the forefront of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning into education. By analyzing the potential of these technologies, the organization aims to enhance personalized learning experiences, automate administrative tasks, and improve overall educational outcomes. Additionally, PARAGON-eduTech delves into blended learning and hybrid pedagogies, combining face-to-face and online learning methodologies to create engaging and inclusive learning experiences.
A key area of focus for PARAGON-eduTech is the use of gamification and serious games in education. By leveraging these techniques, the organization stimulates active learning, motivation, and skill development among students. Moreover, PARAGON-eduTech is committed to addressing digital equity and inclusion, ensuring that all learners, regardless of their background, have equitable access to digital resources and connectivity.
The organization also emphasizes the importance of adopting and implementing educational technologies. PARAGON-eduTech discusses strategies for the successful integration of ICTs in educational institutions, considering pedagogical, technical, and organizational factors. Furthermore, the organization supports the use of Open Educational Resources (OER) and Open Educational Practices (OEP), fostering the sharing of best practices and resources within the educational community.
PARAGON-eduTech is renowned for its annual flagship event, the International Conference on Information and Communication Technologies in Education (ICICTE). This conference, held in Greece, has a rich history spanning over 23 years and has cultivated a global network of academics, researchers, and educators, uniting over 2,500 members.
The organization boasts a dynamic team of 12 dedicated staff members, 40 esteemed advisory board members, and a 25-member dissemination committee. Together, they work tirelessly to advance the mission of PARAGON-eduTech, making significant strides in the field of educational technology and inclusive learning.