The CSI Hackathon is a school-integrated, online educational programme where students (ages 10–16) learn about sustainability, space, and digital creativity through project-based learning. It is not an exam or a traditional competition.

You guide and supervise your students, lead the live sessions locally during class time, encourage participation, and support teamwork. You do not need to teach the content — all materials and guidance are provided.

Live sessions are led by class educators during class time. The CSI facilitation team supports educators with structure, expert input, resources, and continuous communication.

No. The programme is designed to be teacher-friendly. A short preparation period is included, and the CSI team provides ongoing pedagogical and technical support.

Learning materials are provided in English and Greek, but you may guide students in any language that best suits your class.

During the hackathon period (1–10 March 2026):

• One 90-minute live session per day during class time

• Additional flexible time for self-paced activities (at your discretion)

Yes. All activities take place in secure, closed online environments, are moderated by educators, and follow GDPR and child-protection standards.

No. The programme is designed for beginners. Students are guided step by step and supported throughout.

Students are selected on 15 February and first enter a preparation period. The competition phase lasts only 10 days, from 1–10 March 2026, during which all projects are created and submitted.

Screen time is structured and age-appropriate:

• Live sessions: 90 minutes per day (during school hours)
• Additional self-paced activities are flexible and short

Yes. Parents are invited to the online showcase event on 20 April 2026, where student projects are presented and celebrated.

It is both, but learning comes first. Everyone who completes the programme earns a certificate. The competition element is friendly and motivating, not stressful.

You may create:

• Videos
• Podcasts
• Infographics
• Blogs
• Social media campaigns

All projects are about sustainability, space, and global challenges.

Yes. Students may work individually or in teams, depending on the activity and teacher guidance.

You can submit your projects in ANY language. Materials are in English and Greek, but your creative work can be in the language you feel most comfortable with.

Yes. Participation is free of charge for selected students and schools.

Students need:

• A computer or tablet
• Internet access
• Headphones (recommended)
• Optional: smartphone for recording video or audio

All tools used are free and web-based.

Students can continue through self-paced materials. To receive certification, students must attend at least 8 live sessions.

Support is provided through:

• Class educators
• Moderated discussion forums
• Direct communication with the CSI team

Students and teachers are never left unsupported.

Students who complete the programme receive:

• A CSI Digital Advocacy Microcredential
• Digital skill badges
• A personal digital portfolio

Students participate in learning activities throughout the programme, but only specific digital projects submitted during the hackathon are considered for the competition.

Each student or team submits a set of digital advocacy outputs, which may include:

• Videos
• Podcasts
• Infographics
• Blogs or articles
• Social media or awareness campaigns
Projects can be submitted in any language.

📋 Evaluation Criteria

All projects are evaluated using clear, age-appropriate criteria, shared in advance with educators and students.

✅ Core Evaluation Criteria
1. Creativity & Originality
o Is the idea imaginative and engaging?
o Does it show personal or team expression?

2. Clarity of Message
o Is the sustainability or space-related message clear and understandable?
o Is the communication appropriate for the target audience?

3. Relevance to the Theme
o Does the project clearly relate to sustainability, space, or planetary responsibility?
o Are ideas accurate and meaningful?

4. Digital Communication Skills
o Is the chosen digital format used effectively (video, audio, visuals, text)?
o Is the content well structured for the medium?

5. Teamwork & Collaboration (for team projects)
o Is there evidence of cooperation and shared effort?

6. Ethical & Responsible Communication
o Is the content respectful, inclusive, and responsible?
o Does it promote positive values and awareness?

❗ Technical perfection is not required.

The focus is on ideas, effort, learning, and communication, not professional-level production.

The evaluation process is multi-layered, ensuring fairness and transparency.

🟦 1. Educator Input (Formative Perspective)
Class educators:
• Observe student participation and engagement
• Support reflection and self-improvement
• Do not grade or rank students competitively
Their role is supportive, not judging.

🟩 2. CSI Evaluation Panel (Final Decision)
Final competition decisions are made by a CSI Evaluation Panel, composed of:
• Sustainability and STEAM education experts
• Digital media and communication specialists
• Members of the CSI project team
The panel:
• Uses a common evaluation rubric
• Reviews submitted projects after the 10-day hackathon
• Ensures consistency across schools and countries

🟨 3. Peer & Self-Reflection (Non-Competitive)
Students are also invited to:
• Reflect on their own work
• Give constructive feedback to peers

This process does not affect competition ranking, but supports learning and critical thinking. All tools used are free and web-based.

The CSI Hackathon focuses on recognition rather than ranking.

🎖️ All students who complete the programme receive:
• A CSI Digital Advocacy Microcredential
• Digital skill badges
• A personal e-portfolio

🌟 Special Recognition Categories (examples):
• Most Creative Project
• Best Sustainability Message
• Strongest Team Collaboration
• Inspiring Young Advocate
• Best Visual Storytelling

These recognitions aim to celebrate different strengths, not to create pressure or exclusion.

• Evaluation criteria are shared before the competition begins
• Students receive qualitative feedback, not just scores
• Educators can access evaluation summaries
• Families see projects showcased during the final online event