At ACS Athens, we are proud to champion innovative learning experiences that inspire and empower our students to lead. This October, our commitment to fostering dynamic, student-centered education was highlighted on the global stage as two of our esteemed faculty members presented at the IB Global Conference in Budapest, Hungary.
Representing ACS Athens were Dr. Elina Prodromidi, Chair of the Division of Science, and Ms. Angela Chamosfakidis, Chair of the Division of Social Studies. Their presentation, titled "Empowering Minds: How to Bridge DP Biology and DP Psychology through Dynamic Student-Led Learning," was selected from hundreds of global submissions to be part of the conference’s Breakout Sessions. This year's conference theme, "Inspiring Learners, Realizing Potential," provided the perfect platform to showcase an innovative initiative that has transformed the educational experience for both our students and faculty.
Their work with The Intersection Club — a unique, student-led club that merges the disciplines of biology and psychology — began over five years ago. Since its inception, the club has created a collaborative space where students not only explore the connections between these two fields but also design and lead activities that engage their peers in dynamic, interdisciplinary learning. The club has sparked immense enthusiasm, reinforcing the power of student agency and the impact of hands-on, integrative education.
During their 1 hour and 15-minute presentation, Dr. Prodromidi and Ms. Chamosfakidis shared how this student-driven approach has empowered learners to deepen their understanding of both Biology and Psychology with a special focus on the Brain as the central organ that coordinates and regulates bodily functions as well as influencing behavior, thoughts and emotions. Through this activity or approach, students developed research, communication, collaboration and critical skills in leadership. Attendees, including educators, administrators, and IB leaders from around the world, were highly engaged and left inspired by the innovative methods and outcomes showcased.
As a school, ACS Athens is committed to pushing the boundaries of traditional education, encouraging our students to take an active role in their learning journey. The success of The Intersection Club and our faculty’s opportunity to present at the IB Global Conference for the second time are a testament to this vision. We are incredibly proud of the work Dr. Prodromidi and Ms. Chamosfakidis have done in fostering an environment where students can realize their full potential by connecting disciplines in meaningful ways.
We look forward to continuing this journey of collaboration, innovation, and inspiration, confident that the work we are doing today will shape the leaders and thinkers of tomorrow!
