Florence / Lanciano October 8, 2026. Artificial intelligence is entering schools and transforming not only the tools available to teachers and students, but also the way learning activities are designed, knowledge is built, and learning outcomes are evaluated. In the face of this transformation, the challenge is not just learning how to use new technologies, but understanding which competencies schools need to strengthen to enable students to find their direction, make choices, experiment, and think independently.

It is on this ground that artificial intelligence and STEM meet—two central themes of the Scientific Program of DIDACTA ITALIA – Abruzzo Edition, scheduled from October 21 to 23 at the Lanciano Fiera (CH) exhibition center. Created in scientific partnership with INDIRE and coordinated by Professor Giovanni Biondi, the Scientific Program proposes a path that views innovation not merely as the introduction of new tools, but as an opportunity to rethink teaching practices and methodologies.

The topic of artificial intelligence will be addressed starting from its educational implications: from the relationship between human intelligence and algorithmic systems, to the use of generative AI in designing learning activities, and the need to rethink assignments and evaluation methods.

Starting from early childhood, the workshop “Questions that Generate the Future: Designing Scientific Citizenship Experiences in Early Childhood (0–6) with Artificial Intelligence”, scheduled for October 21 at 11:15 AM, will focus on documentation, simulations, and the critical use of generative AI. Working alongside educators and teachers, it aims to build open and flexible learning pathways where learning takes shape through the relationships children build with peers, adults, materials, and their environment.

The relationship between human capabilities and algorithmic systems will take center stage in the seminar “Human Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence: Educating Thought in the Era of AI”, scheduled for the same day, October 21 at 1:15 PM. This reflection begins with a central question: how can we use new technologies without losing sight of what must remain at the heart of the educational process—from the ability to interpret and judge, to creating and making autonomous decisions.

At 2:30 PM, this reflection shifts to classroom practice with “Beyond the Prompt: Teaching in the Era of Generative Artificial Intelligence”, dedicated to using AI beyond occasional experimentation, transforming it into a supportive tool for lesson planning and student activities within a conscious, ethically oriented approach.

Alongside artificial intelligence and critical thinking, another central theme of the Scientific Program will be STEM disciplines and the need to strengthen their learning through approaches capable of engaging students, overcoming stereotypes, and recognizing aptitudes and talents.

The topic will be addressed starting from the early school years with “How to Teach STEM Disciplines to Children: Dismantling Stereotypes and Building Knowledge”, scheduled for October 22 at 5:00 PM, dedicated to building a positive relationship with scientific disciplines from early childhood and countering biases that can influence interests and future choices.

This topic also closely concerns educational guidance. In lower secondary school, recognizing skills and inclinations can be decisive in helping students identify their path. This is the starting point for “Technical/STEAM Guidance in Middle Schools: How to Recognize ‘Practical’ Talent?”, scheduled for October 21 at 9:30 AM, which offers a reflection on how to identify and value skills that do not always emerge through traditional learning pathways.

Expanding from disciplines to key competencies, the discussion broadens with “Beyond STEM: Why SCALE Competencies Will Be Needed—The School of Capabilities, Not Just Skills”, scheduled for October 23 at 2:30 PM, which will emphasize the ability to apply what is learned across different contexts, solve problems, make decisions, and build independent pathways.

The full Scientific Program of DIDACTA ITALIA – Abruzzo Edition is available on the official website. You can select the events of interest and complete the ticket purchase directly through the portal. Payment can also be made using the Carta del docente.

Ticket prices are 16, 25, or 30 euros, depending on the duration of attendance (one, two, or three days, respectively). Attendees can book up to two training events per day, choosing between seminars and workshops, in addition to unlimited access to events organized by institutions and participating companies.

DIDACTA ITALIA – Abruzzo Edition is organized by Firenze Fiera and led by an Organizing Committee coordinated by Anna Paola Concia, composed of the Ministry of Education and Merit, the Abruzzo Region, the Municipality of Lanciano, the Municipality of L’Aquila, the Regional School Offices of Abruzzo, Molise, Marche, and Apulia, the “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, the University of L’Aquila, the University of Teramo, Abruzzo ITS Academy, ITS Moda Pescara, ITS Academy L’Aquila, Accademia di Belle Arti L’Aquila, ITS Agroalimentare Teramo, ITS Most Academy, and ITS Mark. Scientific partner: INDIRE. Partner: Didacta International.

DIDACTA ITALIA – Abruzzo Edition Opening Hours

October 21 and 22: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM

October 23: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

www.fieradidacta.it

#didactaAbruzzo26