Innovation in formal education

The PP&S Project (Problem Posing & Solving) is part of the initiatives promoted by the Directorate General for School Regulations of the Italian Ministry of Education and Merit, aimed at supporting innovation in upper secondary education. The project, focused on the problem-solving methodology, aims to harness the innovative potential of computer science as a key driver of innovation.

The National Digital School Plan (PNSD), introduced by Law 107/2015, represents the national strategy for digital innovation in the Italian school system, aiming to modernize education and develop students’ digital skills. It consists of a total of 35 actions, divided into four areas of intervention: 

• Connectivity: actions aimed at ensuring Internet access for all educational institutions, students, and school staff;
• Learning Environments and Tools: actions designed to equip schools with innovative learning environments based on the use of digital technologies;
• Skills and Content: actions aimed at promoting and strengthening students’ digital skills and supporting the development of high-quality content for digital teaching;
• Training and Support: actions intended to foster educational and digital innovation through support initiatives for schools and training programs for school personnel.

The PNSD is currently engaged in a multi-level strategy to promote the adoption, in all schools, of digital curricula, the European reference frameworks for digital skills (DigComp and DigCompEdu), innovative learning environments, innovative teaching methodologies, digital entrepreneurship, digital content and innovative libraries.

Fostering innovation through non-formal and informal learning and youth work 

Within the Italian education system, the Pathways for Transversal Skills and Orientation (Percorsi per le competenze trasversali e per l’orientamento - PTCO) focus on the development of transversal skills, with the aim of equipping students with competences that enhance their employability in any sector. Work-related activities carried out in the form of either employed or self-employed work, as well as learning experiences conducted in formal or non-formal work environments, are considered equivalent to PCTO. They may also take the form of volunteering, company internships, traineeships, or apprenticeships. 

The PCTO guidelines, developed in accordance with Law 145/2018, place strong emphasis on addressing the needs of innovation. Many programs include activities related to innovation, particularly in the fields of technology and computer science.

The National Association of Young Innovators (Associazione Nazionale Giovani Innovatori) promotes innovation through culture, education, and new technologies, while fostering cross-sector synergies among private entities, schools, universities, companies, trade associations, and national and international institutions. The Association carries out a wide range of activities: conferences, events, seminars, advanced training programs, research and analysis, also through their observatory dedicated to youth and innovation. The association relies on a global community of supporters who are passionate about the world of innovation which includes schools and universities, institutions and businesses, foundations and non-profit organizations, as well as young people, professionals, and researchers.

The Fondazione Mondo Digitale promotes innovation combining formal and informal learning. They organize courses focused on innovative digital solutions and provide certifications, which certify the knowledge and skills acquired through formal, informal, and non-formal learning experiences. These certifications are aligned with the standards defined by the European reference frameworks on digital competences for citizens, teachers, and trainers (DigComp and DigCompEdu).