Foreword

Dear colleagues,

Nearly half a century ago, a science fiction writer noted that only time stands between imagination and reality. That time is continuously shrinking. We are witnessing that is rapidly changing and becoming increasingly complex. Our education systems must keep pace with these changes, providing students not only with foundational knowledge but also with the key competences needed for life and work in a globalized, digital, and environmentally conscious society. The abstracts published here, and we believe the full papers to follow, offer an overview of contemporary topics in education (STOO), presenting research and ideas that bridge theory and practice, while also providing concrete proposals for improving educational policies and practices.

We are proud of the wide range of topics covered by the Conference: from the importance of personal development and acquiring skills such as creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurship, to inclusive education that promotes multiculturalism and intercultural dialogue, as well as the challenges of digital transformation and the role of technology in education (which is changing not only our classrooms but also testing our patience), sustainable development, innovation and research, kinesiology, and arts education. The Conference is designed as a platform for seeking answers to how we can prepare children and youth for a future world whose shape we still cannot foresee.

We believe the topics presented here will be a useful source of inspiration for you, that they will spark further research and implementation of new educational practices.

We wish you a successful participation at the Conference and hope you make many valuable connections.

See you at STOO6 in 2026!

On behalf of the Conference Program Committee,
Dubravka Miljković, professor emerita

On behalf of the Conference Organising Committee,

prof.dr.sc. Mario Dumančić