العربية
SEK International Schools held the III International SEK Scientific Congress at the Camilo José Cela University campus in Almagro, an event that brought together students, teachers, and experts to share scientific research they have been developing throughout the academic year.
Over 20 scientific research projects were presented during the congress, including topics such as the effectiveness of natural antibiotics against bacterial growth, a study on how sugar influences electricity generation in microbial fuel cells, simulations of tooth decay caused by common beverages, the impact of location on air purity, and the effect of energy drinks on physical performance. These projects reflected the students’ high level of involvement, creativity, and critical thinking.
Aiming to spark scientific and technological vocations among students, the opening motivational talk was titled “Challenges and Opportunities in Materials Research”, delivered by physicist Miguel Anaya. His speech provided an inspiring and accessible insight into scientific work in the field of materials science, encouraging students to explore the multiple possibilities of research with curiosity and dedication.
One of the most enriching moments of the congress was the round table titled “Data Visualization in Scientific Research: Techniques and Tools to Make Scientific Data More Understandable and Engaging.” Designed with an interdisciplinary focus, the panel featured experts from different scientific fields: Dr. Juan Monreal (Biology, SEK-Ciudalcampo), Dr. Gordon Wilkinson (Chemistry, SEK-El Castillo), and Miguel Anaya (Physics), allowing the topic to be approached from broad and complementary perspectives. Active participation from students across various SEK schools further enhanced the discussion.
Topics of great relevance emerged, such as the impact of fake news on the public perception of science, the use of artificial intelligence in research processes, and the importance of understanding science as a process grounded in evidence rather than assumptions.
At SEK Schools, science is not just taught — it is lived and experienced. “Teaching science by doing science is the best way to cultivate critical and engaged minds. Otherwise, we risk turning classes into mere vocabulary exercises instead of fostering a real understanding of the scientific method and its application to everyday life,” said Gloria Huerta, science teacher at SEK-Ciudalcampo.
During his remarks, Iván Martínez, General Director of SEK International Schools, emphasized that “these projects demonstrate that science is not just another subject, but a way of seeing reality through a renewed lens.”
This initiative is part of the SEK Future Learning Model and exemplifies how students apply classroom knowledge to real-world contexts. Through the learning by doing methodology, this experience allows students to investigate, experiment, and communicate through hands-on practice, while developing key skills such as critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and effective communication. Beyond sharing research, students take on various roles — as speakers, presenters, or online communication managers — which strengthens lifelong learning, research rigor, and intercultural empathy. All of this makes the congress a strategic proposal to prepare global citizens committed to the challenges of today’s world.