Jorge Patric Peña Guevara

Jorge Patric Peña Guevara, a trailblazing computer science educator, has dedicated his career to revolutionizing education in Huaquillas, a border town in Ecuador facing significant social and economic challenges. Since his first steps as a teacher at his educational institution, he has received prestigious national recognition. Patric's career is a testimony of perseverance, innovation and the transformative power of education. 

Patric began his career as a computer science teacher in 2012, encouraged by his mother to put into practice his pedagogical knowledge acquired at the National University of Loja. Teaching in Huaquillas, an area affected by poverty, crime and family instability, represented great challenges. Many students lacked motivation due to their difficult realities, marked by risks associated with smuggling, gang activities, and financial dependence on fishing. However, Patric was determined to inspire his students and create an environment where education could be a beacon of hope and progress. 

In 2021, Patric led the start of the “Future Classroom for Computing” project, adapting the European initiative to its local context. This innovative learning environment integrates technology, project-based learning (PBL), and a STEAM+H approach to foster collaboration, creativity, and problem solving. The classroom empowers students to address real-world challenges, achieving milestones such as winning the CREA 2024 National Fair with the “ArduinChair” project, an innovative smart wheelchair prototype for people with mobility challenges. 

Patric's teaching philosophy focuses on a constructivist approach, where students learn by doing, integrating knowledge from various disciplines to develop meaningful projects. It has replaced traditional exams and assignments with collaborative, hands-on activities that prioritize learning outcomes and the practice of human values. Its PBL methodology includes seven structured phases, from team formation to project evaluation, ensuring that students develop both creative academic skills and life competencies. 

The impact of Patric's work transcends the classroom, with students excelling in national and international competitions, producing innovations such as the creation of projects based on robotics and video games that promote cultural heritage. Its students have continued their higher studies at prestigious institutions within their country, such as Yachay Tech in Nanotechnology Engineering and abroad, such as at the Rey Juan Carlos University in Spain in Audiovisual Communication. 

Patric also makes significant contributions to his community. As coordinator of the Technical Baccalaureate Strengthening Network, he organizes training for educators, sharing good practices in PBL and technological integration. Its reach includes a YouTube channel (@AulaDelFuturoEC) that seeks to inspire and support other teachers to replicate the “Classroom of the Future” model. Beyond education, Patric serves as secretary of the Huaquillas Fútbol Club, where a soccer training school has been created and offers scholarships and sports opportunities to young people. 

Recognized for his dedication, Patric has received distinctions such as the National Merit for Educational Innovation 2024, his Aula del Futuro project has been included within the innovation laboratory of Ecuador as an Innovative Educational Practice and has also been included in the Mapping of Good Practices in Digital Education from the Organization of American States. Its educational approach also incorporates awareness about climate change, with initiatives such as reforestation, mangrove conservation and environmental education campaigns. 

Jorge Patric Peña Guevara’s career exemplifies how innovative teaching practices, coupled with a deep commitment to students and community, can transform lives and create lasting impact. Through his vision, students in Huaquillas are not just learning—they are building brighter futures and becoming global citizens ready to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.