4.3.4 Education outreach activities beyond campus
BOĞAZİÇİ UNIVERSITY
KANDİLLİ OBSERVATORY EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS TRAINING UNIT AND LABORATORY
The Disaster Preparedness Laboratory (AHLAB) at Boğaziçi University Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute is based on the Disaster Preparedness Education Project (AHEP) established after the 1999 Kocaeli Earthquake.
AHLAB has been developing various training programmes and materials in order to contribute to public education activities related to community-oriented disaster preparedness. In this context, four main training programmes have been developed:
1.Basic Disaster Awareness (ABCD): Aiming to increase disaster awareness, this programme raises public awareness about general disaster preparedness.
2.Mitigation of Non-structural Hazards (NNH): This programme aims to minimise potential damages during an earthquake by teaching how to reduce non-structural hazards.
3.Structural Awareness Against Earthquakes (SEP): Aiming to increase structural safety, this programme teaches structural precautions to be taken against earthquakes.
4.Civil Defence Officers-Community Disaster Volunteers and Public Disaster Preparedness Training Programme (SSG-TAG): It covers the training of volunteers and civil defence officers in order to ensure preparedness of the society against disasters.
AHLAB also works on publications for the disabled, disaster preparedness manuals for schools and hospitals, protection of museum artefacts. Training programmes are delivered to different segments of the society within the framework of protocols signed with the Ministry of National Education, Ministry of Interior General Directorate of Civil Defence, Ministry of Health, Turkish Red Crescent Society/American Red Cross, local administrations and various NGOs.
AHLAB cooperates with various public institutions, non-governmental organisations and volunteer groups in order to continuously update and improve its training programmes and to spread disaster awareness. In this context, various materials such as training presentations, handbooks, CDs and information cards are prepared. Training materials are presented in Turkish, English and Russian and transferred to the virtual environment.
DEPREMPARK
DEPREMPARK, a part of AHLAB, organises trainings aimed at raising awareness of primary school students about earthquakes. These trainings ensure that students are informed about how they should behave before, during and after an earthquake.
Application Areas and Contributions of Trainings
AHLAB's training programmes prepare materials and provide hands-on training on disaster preparedness and business continuity in workplaces, schools, hospitals and museums. For the 2023 training calendar, please visit the link below.
https://ahlab.bogazici.edu.tr/tr/content/kurumsal-egitimler
1. Migros Headquarters 2023
Migros supports education and social aid activities in local schools as part of its social responsibility projects. These projects aim to improve the quality of education of students and raise social awareness.
2. Borusan Cat 2023
Borusan Cat contributes to educational projects in co-operation with local communities. These projects aim to support students in their future careers by providing technical and vocational training.
3. US Consulate General in Istanbul 2023
The US Consulate General in Istanbul participates in and supports various educational and outreach projects in local schools. These projects enable students to get to know different cultures and gain an international perspective.
4. Migros Education Project 2023
Migros organises educational projects in local schools and provides various educational materials and resources to students. These projects aim to improve the quality of education and facilitate students' access to information.
5. Edenred Kurumsal Çözümler A.Ş. 2023
Edenred contributes to the education of students by supporting education and outreach activities in local communities. These projects aim to improve both academic and social skills of students.
6. Boyner 2023
Boyner offers various trainings and activities to students through social responsibility projects organised at local schools. In addition to contributing to the education of students, these projects also aim to raise awareness of social responsibility.
7. Erna Maş 2023
Erna Maş organises educational projects in local schools, providing technical trainings and vocational skills to students. These projects aim to support students' future careers.
8. Ersem 2023
Ersem provides various educational opportunities to students by contributing to educational and social aid projects in local schools. These projects contribute to both academic and personal development of students.
9. Teknofest 2023
Boğaziçi University raises public awareness on earthquake preparedness by taking part in Teknofest 2023 with its Earthquake Simulation Training Truck. In this event, earthquake preparedness training was provided to approximately 7505 participants.
10. Türkiye Finans Participation 2023
Türkiye Finans Participation aims to provide students with financial literacy and economic knowledge through educational projects organised at local schools. These projects aim to increase students' financial awareness.
11. Toyota Boshoku Turkey 2023
Toyota Boshoku Turkey supports students by organising technical training and outreach projects at local schools. These projects aim to improve both the technical skills and social responsibility awareness of students.
12. Ford Otosan Gölcük 2023
Ford Otosan Gölcük provides various educational materials and resources to students through education and social aid projects organised at local schools. These projects aim to improve the quality of education of students and facilitate their access to information.
13. TMF Group 2023
TMF Group organises educational projects in local schools and offers various trainings and activities to students. These projects aim to contribute to both academic and personal development of students.
14. Codeway 2023
Codeway provides technical skills to students by organising coding and technology trainings in local schools. These projects aim to increase students' interest in technology and support their future careers.
15. Apple (TR) 2023
Apple Turkey raises public awareness on disaster awareness with ABCD Basic Disaster Awareness Training organised at Kandilli Observatory. This training programme aims to raise disaster awareness among senior managers and employees.
These activities demonstrate Boğaziçi University's commitment to education and outreach and its contribution to society.
2024 TEKNOFEST Technology Competition Applications Have Begun
TEKNOFEST 2024 is organising technology competitions that attract intense interest from young people. This year, competitions will be held in a total of 46 main categories and 117 subcategories. The categories include Rocket, Model Satellite, Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, Biotechnology Innovation, Digital Technologies in Industry, Flying Car Simulation, Educational Technologies, Robotaxi Autonomous Vehicles, Agricultural Technologies, Combat UAVs, and Chip Design, among many others.
Unlike previous years, Wireless Communication, Blockchain, Air Defence Systems, Financial Technologies, Unmanned Sea Vehicles, Smart Wi-Fi Coverage and TEKNOFEST Robolig competitions will be open for applications for the first time in 2024.
Teams that pass the preliminary round of the competitions will receive 50 million TL, while teams that compete in the finals and win awards will receive 25 million TL. Young people will have the opportunity to showcase their technological innovations and win awards through this opportunity.
For detailed information about the competitions and to apply, visit the official TEKNOFEST website.
For detailed information about the competitions and to apply, please click here.
The Future of Mathematics Education Discussed at Boğaziçi
The ‘Mathematics Education Workshop in the Century of Turkey,’ organised by the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of National Education, was held at Boğaziçi University. The workshop, which was attended by academics from nine universities in Istanbul and mathematics and classroom teachers of various levels, discussed new approaches and curriculum changes in mathematics education in detail.
The event, held at Albert Long Hall, evaluated primary, secondary, and high school mathematics programmes in separate working groups, and the results were reported. Throughout the workshop, teachers and academics from 19 districts of Istanbul exchanged ideas on how to improve the current state of mathematics education in Turkey.
The event, which also included the participation of Prof. Dr. İrfan Erdoğan, Dean of the Faculty of Education at Boğaziçi University, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murat Mücahit Yentür, Director of the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of National Education, provided an important platform for innovative steps in mathematics education.
Boğaziçi University at TEKNOFEST Adana on 2–6 October
The TEKNOFEST Aviation, Space and Technology Festival 2024 will be held at Adana Airport on 2–6 October. As in previous years, Boğaziçi University will welcome science enthusiasts of all ages at its stand at the festival.
Featured Projects and Experiments:
Microalgae Project in Space (UzMAn)
- Microalgae developed by Boğaziçi University's Institute of Environmental Sciences were transported to the International Space Station by Turkey's first astronaut, Alper Gezeravcı.
- Experiments were conducted in ESA's Columbus module, and a carbon dioxide enrichment unit was tested.
- An exact replica of the experiment unit will be on display at the TEKNOFEST stand, where scientists will explain the project to visitors.
Battery Technologies of the Future
- The Chemistry Department will provide visitors with training on button cell assembly.
- Participants will learn about the components of a battery and receive LED candles powered by batteries they assemble themselves.
Molecular Biology and Genetics Experiments
Visitors will be able to:
- Isolate DNA from strawberries.
- Perform sugar tests on honey and examine tissue under a microscope.
- The experiments will be presented interactively.
Earthquake and Tsunami Monitoring (KRDAE)
Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute:
- Will introduce real-time earthquake and tsunami monitoring systems.
- Current data on Turkey's seismicity will be shared.
Autonomous Driving Systems (Artificial Intelligence Institute)
- Visitors will be able to experience autonomous driving systems on a scaled Formula 1 car platform.
- This vehicle, which operates with LIDAR, GPS and depth sensors, aims to model autonomous systems in the real world.
Boğaziçi University will present a wide range of projects at TEKNOFEST Adana 2024, from space biotechnology to artificial intelligence, molecular biology to earthquake monitoring, offering visitors the opportunity to experience science firsthand.
https://haberler.bogazici.edu.tr/tr/news/bilim/4/bogazici-universitesi-2-6-ekimde-teknofest-ad/2863
Boğaziçi University and YETEV Sign Cooperation Protocol for Montessori Teacher Training
Boğaziçi University and the New Turkey Education Foundation (YETEV) have signed a ‘Montessori Teacher Training Applications and Education Cooperation Protocol,’ launching an important educational partnership. The ceremony, held in the University's Rectorate Meeting Hall, was attended by Bilal Erdoğan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of YETEV, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Naci İnci, Rector of Boğaziçi University, and Prof. Dr. İrfan Erdoğan, Dean of the Faculty of Education.
YETEV President Bilal Erdoğan stated that the Montessori method has been implemented in Palet Schools since 2011, starting with kindergartens and then expanding to primary schools. Erdoğan emphasised that Montessori is a pedagogical approach that respects human nature and, in particular, the neurological development of children, focusing on raising them in the healthiest way possible. He noted that YETEV is an institution that grants international preschool teaching certificates in Turkey, and that Montessori teacher candidates can now obtain certification through training provided at Boğaziçi University's Centre for Continuing Education.
Bilal Erdoğan pointed out that education should not be limited to the school environment, but should be present in all areas of life, and that improving the competence and motivation of teachers should be a common goal for society.
Boğaziçi University Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Naci İnci stated that he believes the protocol will combine the strengths of both institutions and yield productive results.
Dean of the Faculty of Education Prof. Dr. İrfan Erdoğan said that they aim to raise generations that combine national spirit and a universal perspective with the understanding that ‘education is eternal, upbringing is national.’ Prof. Dr. Erdoğan also mentioned that innovative initiatives such as philosophy symposia for children, in addition to Montessori education programmes, are planned, and emphasised that the protocol will increase opportunities for joint research, observation, and learning.
2024 Sustainability Report SDG-4 (Related Section)
Social Aid Activities for Education Off-Campus
Boğaziçi University KRDAE Disaster Preparedness Laboratory
The Disaster Preparedness Laboratory (AHLAB) at Boğaziçi University Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute dates back to the Disaster Preparedness Education Project (AHEP) initiated after the 1999 Kocaeli Earthquake and funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID/OFDA). The project aims to reduce the loss of life and property against a possible earthquake and to increase the disaster awareness, local preparedness and first response organisation skills of the public. In this context, four main training programmes, handbooks, CDs and information cards were developed. The programmes are delivered to different segments of the society within the framework of protocols signed with the Ministry of National Education, Ministry of Interior General Directorate of Civil Defence, Ministry of Health, Turkish Red Crescent Society/American Red Cross, local administrations and various NGOs.
https://ahlab.bogazici.edu.tr/tr
Basic Disaster Awareness Training (ABCD): Development of disaster preparedness plans for families and organisations, risk reduction strategies and things to be done during disasters are among the main topics of this introductory level training addressing all segments of the society and aiming to increase disaster awareness.
https://ahlab.bogazici.edu.tr/tr/content/temel-afet-bilinci
Basic Disaster Awareness Training (ABC):
Development of disaster preparedness plans for families and organisations, risk reduction strategies and what to do during disasters are among the main topics of this introductory level training that addresses all segments of the society and aims to increase disaster awareness.
https://ahlab.bogazici.edu.tr/tr/content/temel-afet-bilinci
Training on Mitigation of Non-Structural Hazards (YOTA):
It is a programme that aims to reduce the risks posed by furniture, lighting systems and office machinery elements outside the load-bearing system of buildings such as columns, beams and walls during earthquakes.
https://ahlab.bogazici.edu.tr/tr/content/yapisal-olmayan-tehlikelerin-azaltilmasi
Structural Awareness Training against Earthquake (SSET):
The main objective of the training is to raise awareness among individuals about earthquake- resistant structures and to encourage them to become informed advocates for the safe construction of buildings.
https://ahlab.bogazici.edu.tr/tr/content/depreme-karsi-yapisal-bilinc
Civil Defence Officers-Community Disaster Volunteer Training (SSG-TAG):
It aims to ensure that voluntary organisations and individuals who will provide the first response after a disaster adopt a standard action model and a feasible action plan by organising themselves until the arrival of professional teams and to assist them after the arrival of the teams.
https://ahlab.bogazici.edu.tr/tr/content/toplum-afet-gonulluleri
Earthquakepark Applications
Children, young people and employees coming to AHLAB for Basic Disaster Awareness Training from various schools and institutions are shown how faulting occurs during earthquakes and the difference between an earthquake safe building and a defectively constructed building with the models in the Earthquake Park after the class; an earthquake simulation is made in the classroom and children's room set up on the ‘Shaking Table’ and behavioural practices during the shaking are performed; and search and rescue activities after the earthquake are animated with models in the ‘Post-Earthquake Corner’.
https://ahlab.bogazici.edu.tr/tr/content/deprempark
Earthquake Truck Trainings
With the Mobile Earthquake Simulation Training Truck (GEDSET) of Boğaziçi University Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute, private and public organisations are given on-site training on what to do during an earthquake and earthquake simulation lasting 20 seconds is applied.
In 2023, Corporate Trainings Provided on Earthquake and Disaster Awareness
Boğaziçi University Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute organised comprehensive corporate trainings for companies from various sectors in 2023, reaching a total of 6841 participants. The trainings, which were organised in cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, Kocaeli and Gebze, were mainly given under the GEDSET and ABCD titles. Large companies such as Migros, Ford Otosan, Eczacıbaşı, Apple and Borusan participated in these trainings, which contributed to the professional development of employees. The trainings were organised for both small groups and large groups of participants and were structured to meet the needs of the business world.
In 2023, Corporate Trainings Provided on Earthquake and Disaster Awareness
BÜYEM Corporate Social Responsibility and EU & ISTKA Projects
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The main purpose of Boğaziçi University Lifelong Learning Centre (BÜYEM)'s Corporate Social Responsibility Projects and EU & ISTKA Projects carried out in partnership with the European Union and Istanbul Development Agency is to contribute to social development and increase the capacity of individuals and communities in areas such as education, social awareness and employment. While social responsibility projects support social equality by providing education and awareness to disadvantaged groups, EU & ISTKA Projects aim to produce concrete solutions on issues such as economic and social development, entrepreneurship and vocational training through local and international cooperation. With these projects, educational opportunities are offered to different segments of society and social benefit-oriented initiatives are supported.
Some examples of BÜYEM's Corporate Social Responsibility Projects:
- My Knowledge My Abundance: Inclusive Growth Association, seminars on financial literacy and good agricultural practices were organised for farmers with the contributions of Izmir Commodity Exchange and Izmir Provincial Directorate of Agriculture.
- My Future is Tourism: In cooperation with Anadolu Efes, sustainable tourism strategies were developed in a total of 27 implementation areas in 22 provinces and 5 districts to support the social and economic development of regions with tourism potential, and 3355 people were recruited to the tourism sector.
- Beauty Expertise Training: In cooperation with L'Oréal, women between the ages of 18-28, who are unemployed and suffering from financial difficulties, were provided with beautician training within the framework of a certificate programme, enabling them to have a profession.
Some examples of EU & ISTKA Projects:
- Opening Amasya to New Markets Project: Considering the need for Amasya to open up to new markets; trainings were provided on foreign trade, electronics, business development, basic English, business English and computer skills.
- Entrepreneurship Project in Beyoğlu: In the project prepared upon the request of Beyoğlu Municipality; trainings were given on making wooden toys and accessories, information-archiving, and setting up e-business over the internet.
Lifelong Learning Access Policy
According to Boğaziçi University's Code of Ethics, ‘2 - To act fairly and honestly without discrimination and prejudice based on religion, language, race, ethnic origin, opinion, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical disability and similar characteristics, 4 - To protect the freedom of information, knowledge, learning and teaching’. In addition, Boğaziçi University has a Gender Equality Commission and a Gender Equality Plan against discrimination against women. Students with disabilities are provided with an accessible academic and social environment where they are not discriminated against, and have the opportunity to receive individual support from the Disabled Student Unit and GETEM (Technology and Education Laboratory for the Visually Impaired). Boğaziçi University Lifelong Learning Centre (BÜYEM), Corporate Social Responsibility Projects and EU & İSTKA Projects carry out activities open to various social groups with the aim of inclusiveness and reaching large masses. In addition, projects such as the Young Immigrant Entrepreneurs Project and My Sister Project organise special trainings for immigrants, women or the development of different social groups.
https://bogazici.edu.tr/tr-TR/Content/Genel/Etik_Ilkeler
GETEM, the e-library serving the visually impaired in Turkey, is 18 years old
Welcome to the meeting point of Boğaziçi University accessible works and volunteerism! Since 2006, GETEM is an e-library at Boğaziçi University, offering thousands of audiobooks, e-books, radio theatre, audio-described films and audio narration/podcasts. We would like to share a wonderful development with you: GETEM can now be accessed through the Dolphin Easy Reader application. GETEM can be used in the Manage Libraries section of the Easy Reader application, which you can download for free to your iOS, Android and Windows devices.
To help our users, a general video with Easy Reader usage tips and a special guide video for Android devices are also available. GETEM not only provides accessible works, but also leads the way in making more works accessible with the contributions of our volunteer readers. As a volunteer reader, anyone can contribute to this valuable work. If there are books that you would like to be read aloud, you can make a request by filling out the relevant form. In addition to supporting accessibility needs, this initiative also makes a significant contribution to Boğaziçi University's goal of ‘Quality Education’, one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG4).
