FIDE is thrilled to invite you to the Social Chess Research Conference, an online event bringing together researchers, educators, practitioners, and chess enthusiasts to explore how chess contributes to improving quality of life, fostering social development, inclusion, empowerment, and rehabilitation.
Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
Time: 15:00-19:30 CET
Location: Online (Zoom)
This unique conference serves as a platform to highlight innovative applications of chess, from research breakthroughs to real-world stories of empowerment and hope.
Program Structure
15:00–15:15 | Welcome Address by Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board and Andre Vögtlin, FIDE Social Commission Chair
15:15–15:20 | FIDE Social Chess Videos
15:30–17:45 | Chess Research Presentations
- Prof. Filip Kobiela, “Chess as a challenge for the traditional definition of sport” (20 min)
- Dr. Giovanni Sala, “Chess and Mathematics in Primary School” (20 min)
- Juan Antonio Montero Aleu, “Cognitive Training of the Mind Through Chess: ECAM and Gymchess” (20 min)
- Prof. Dr. Sabine Vollstaedt-Klein, “Why chess is good for the brain and can be helpful against addiction” + “Introducing the International Society for Applied Chess (ISAC)” (45 min)
- Prof. Dr. Peter Hersics, “Learnings from EEG Neurofeedback System” (20 min)
17:45–18:00 | Chess Research Project Pitches
- Rodrigo Barbeito, “Social and Therapeutic Chess: A New Look from the Social Sciences”
- Dr. Uvencio Blanco Hernández, “Green Boards for Peace: bridges between chess and education to raise awareness about biodiversity and environmental sustainability”
18:00–18:20 | Breakout Sessions – Participants can join breakout rooms, each representing one of our social chess projects:
- Chess for Freedom
- Chess for Protection
- Infinite Chess – Autism
- Chess4Longevity – Elderly
- Chess4Hope – Underserved communities
- Chess4Recovery – Addiction/Cancer
In these breakout sessions, scientific and operative questions can be raised and discussed among participants. Moderators will document the discussions and present a summary in the main session once the rooms close.
18:20–19:00 | Reporting from the Breakout Sessions
19:00–19:30 | Closing Remarks & Future Collaboration Opportunities
Why Attend?
This conference offers an inspiring blend of keynote presentations, interactive discussions, and thought-provoking panels, connecting a diverse community of individuals dedicated to leveraging chess as a tool for social transformation.
Registration
Register here: https://forms.gle/6quumvjkrAxadBWG8
Zoom link will only be sent to registered participants.