What are High Capabilities, myths and realities

Interview:

Javier Bórnez

Summary:

Teodor Jove Lagunas, director of the Chair of High Capacity Learners at the UdG, interview with Javier Bórnez, educator and educational advisor, where they discuss what the concept of High Capacity Learners (HCL) really means, distinguishing it from the misconceptions that often circulate in the educational and social spheres.It explains how they were not always associated with achieving excellent marks, but with a different way of processing information, having intense curiosity or a special sensitivity.The discussion will cover the most common myths, such as thinking that all HCL children are gifted in everything or that they do not need support because they 'already develop alone'. In addition, emphasis is placed on the diversity within this group and on the emotional and social needs that may appear, such as anxiety, frustration or the feeling of disconnection with peers.Finally, strategies and recommendations are suggested to support them in a respectful way, enhancing their capacities but also taking care of their overall well-being.
This podcast is part of the series "Understanding and Accompanying High Capacity Learners" organised by the Chair of High Capacity Learners with the support of the Social Council and Girona Provincial Council.

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Podcasts

Computational chemistry and catalysis: tools for a more sustainable society

Interview:

Miquel Solà Puig

Summary:

Miquel Solà, researcher at the Institute of Computational Chemistry and Catalysis (IQCC) at the University of Girona, explains that computational chemistry allows chemical reactions to be simulated using computers to predict results, saving resources and energy. Catalysis accelerates reactions without consuming the catalyst. The IQCC is working towards a more sustainable chemistry, with less waste and lower energy consumption, contributing to a better society. The institute stands out both in Catalonia and internationally, with a high level scientific and educational recognition. Solà defends the value and quality of chemistry education in Girona and encourages young people to study. Finally, he highlights examples of social impact such as improvement of industrial processes and reduction of atmospheric CO₂.

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Who cares for the caregivers? The urgent need to dignify care work

Interview:

Anna Maria Molina

Summary:

The interview focuses on the working conditions of women in the care sector, especially those whose job it is to care for the elderly.Ana Molina, a researcher at the University of Girona, explains the results of the European project EUROKAFCA, which focuses on the precarious nature of this sector, characterised by feminisation and the predominance of migrant women. Molina highlights the difficulties arising from the Foreigners Act, the lack of regulation of domestic work, and the fear of reporting abuse, often by people in an irregular situation.

The lack of professional and economic recognition in these jobs is also analysed, as well as the physical and psychological consequences suffered by carers. The outsourcing of public services exacerbates these conditions. Finally, Molina calls for public services to be protected, and for care to be placed at the centre of public policy, warning that the ageing population means this will become an urgent structural problem.

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Heritage as a living legacy: preserving, understanding and communicating the art of the past

Interview:

Gerardo Boto Varela

Summary:

Gerardo Boto, director of the School of Doctoral Studies at the University of Girona and professor of art history, reflects on the importance of rethinking artistic heritage today. He insists that works of art, despite their past, have new meanings today, and defends the need for constant research to keep knowledge and teaching alive.He highlights the value of Girona's heritage, giving examples such as Sant Pere de Rodes and Girona Cathedral, and the importance of Girona as a place of study. Boto also warns of the lack of resources for heritage conservation, and defends the fundamental role of art historians in its management. Finally, he stresses the need for education to help the public to understand restoration work, as heritage is a legacy that needs to be protected and handed down to future generations.

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Artificial intelligence in schools: risks, challenges and opportunities

Interview:

Mònica Puntí Brun

Summary:

In this interview, professor and researcher Mònica Puntí talks about the ‘From Chalk to Chip’ guide, developed by a group of teachers to provide guidance on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom.The initiative stems from concerns that students are already using AI such as ChatGPT, and that teaching staff need to adapt accordingly. Puntí advocates an ethical, critical and educational use of AI, highlighting the importance of understanding how it works, how to give good instructions how to cite sources properly, and how to avoid misinformation and bias.

She also emphasises the importance of developing students' critical thinking and digital literacy, promoting learning spaces with and without technology to enhance creativity. The guide proposes practical activities and compares different AI tools (such as ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini and Claude), assessing their strengths and limitations, especially in areas such as privacy and source accuracy.

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Podcasts

Well-being of children and adolescents: challenges and opportunities in the digital age

Interview:

Sara Malo Cerrato

Summary:

Dr Sara Malo, researcher at the UdG’s Research Group on Children, Adolescents, Children's Rights and Quality of Life, explains that the group works to promote the well-being of children and adolescents by exploring various lines of research, such as happiness, socio-emotional skills, bullying and digital well-being. 

Child and adolescent well-being is influenced by various factors, including the increasing use of screens and digital devices. This phenomenon poses challenges related to mental health, cognitive development and social relationships. It is important to understand how prolonged exposure to screens can affect sleep, concentration and the emotional state of children and young people. At the same time, technologies offer opportunities for learning, social connexion and access to educational resources.

For these reasons, a balanced and responsible use of screens, adapted to the needs and ages of children and adolescents, is recommended. The active involvement of families, educators and healthcare professionals is key to establishing healthy limits and fostering habits that promote overall well-being. Furthermore, it is necessary to promote the development of social, emotional and digital skills that prepare young people for a balanced life in a technological environment.

In short, addressing the challenges of child and adolescent well-being in the digital age requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach that integrates prevention, education and emotional support, thus ensuring healthy growth and a better quality of life.

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Podcasts

The ATL Chair of Drinking Water defends tap water

Interview:

Hèctor Monclús Sales

Summary:

Just over a year ago the ATL Chair of Drinking Water was established at the University of Girona in collaboration with ATL, the public company that manages the water supply in the Ter-Llobregat system. The main objective is to disseminate knowledge about drinking water, especially tap water, and encourage its consumption.

The chair operates in three areas:

1. Dissemination, with workshops for schools and activities open to the public.

2. Research, which is communicated to the public in non-technical, easily understandable language.

3. Promotion of studies on drinking water at different educational levels, different levels of education, with awards for work at upper secondary education, undergraduate, master's and doctoral levels.

One of the main challenges is to break down the negative perception of tap water, which often stems from family habits and prejudices. Monclús emphasises the fact that Girona's tap water is of very high quality thanks to the collection and treatment system. Even so, many people continue to prefer bottled water, for reasons of taste or lack of knowledge.

Finally, although drought restrictions have recently been lifted, climate change means that these situations are likely to recur, making continued investment in water management and raising awareness of responsible water use essential.

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Podcasts