There are huge companies like Tesla trying to protect the planet by reducing our emissions from fossil fuels. There are also smaller companies trying to invent and sell devices to reduce energy consumption with energy-saving inventions for homes. But to produce them they need money – investors.
FUTURE-ORIENTED SCIENCE ACTION
The Energy savers science-action is a short activity, taking 1.5 lessons plus homework. It prepares students to help an entrepreneur design and sell an energy-saving device. Students use their knowledge of energy transfers, energy efficiency and the inquiry skills of represent with models and use fractions and percentages.
SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)
7. Affordable and clean energy
CURRICULUM LINKS
Knowledge: Physics – energy Skills: Represent with models, Use fractions and percentages, Communicate ideas
BLUEPRINT CURRICULUM LINKS
Concepts: Energy transfers, wasted energy
Learning stage: Analyse
ACTIVITY CONTENTS
Teachers guide
Information for STEM professionals
Teaching powerpoint
Home task
Student sheets and assessment rubric
There are 2 activities that can be fitted around existing science lessons.
Understand the scientific context (CARE – school and home tasks)
Coordinate scientific knowledge and skill in a performance assessment (DO)
FUN PARTICIPATORY SCIENCE
This science action engages students, family members, science professionals (engineer, physicist)
COMPETENCE-BASED ASSESSMENT
students feedback about their views of science, including engagement, confidence, and identity.
students and teachers templates to assess knowledge and skills
students feedback about their science capital in the context of open schooling
Carbon neutrality is a state of net-zero carbon dioxide emissions. This can be achieved by eliminating emissions and balancing emissions of carbon dioxide with its removal (carbon offsetting). Carbon-emitting processes are associated with transportation, energy production, agriculture, and industry. The world is running out of time to protect the planet from the worst effects of climate change. Many see the COP28 meeting, which will be in the UAE in November 2023, as the world’s best last chance to get climate change under control. Here world leaders will agree to measures to reduce carbon emissions. Everyone must play their part: individuals, households and businesses.
FUTURE-ORIENTED SCIENCE ACTION
The Carbon neutral science-action prepares students to plan a presentation to win the job of being a café’s carbon consultants and help them achieve carbon neutrality. Students use their knowledge of the Earth’s atmosphere and the inquiry skill of considering different perspectives.
SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)
7. Affordable and clean energy
13. Climate action1
2. Responsible consumption and production
CURRICULUM
Knowledge: Chemistry – Earth’s atmosphere – climate change Skills: Consider different perspectives and communicate ideas Attitude & Values: environmental protection, work in teams
KNOW 2
Concept: Global warming
Skill: Consider different perspectives
Learning stage: Analyse
ACTIVITY CONTENTS
Teachers guide
Information for STEM professionals
Teaching powerpoints
Home task
Student sheets and assessment rubric
CARE-KNOW-DO ACTIVITIES
There are 4 activities which can be fitted around existing science lessons.
You can use one or more of them:
Understand the scientific context (CARE)
Apply earth’s atmosphere/carbon cycle to a new context (KNOW 1)
Practice the skill ‘Consider different perspectives (KNOW 2)
Coordinate scientific knowledge and skill in a performance assessment (DO)
FUN PARTICIPATORY SCIENCE
This science action engages students, family members, science professionals (Climate scientists, environmental chemists, chemical engineers)
Students are invited to identify issues and co–create solutions, interact with experts, and become activists for environmental protection.
COMPETENCE-BASED ASSESSMENT
students feedback about their views of science, including engagement, confidence, and identity.
students and teachers templates to assess knowledge and skills
students feedback about their science capital in the context of open schooling
Human activity has been incredibly destructive in terms of the biodiversity of the world. Biodiversity on Earth is being catastrophically lost at an alarming rate affecting our own health and well-being. In the last 50 years, humans have caused the disappearance of 68% of the number of animals on the planet through hunting, pollution and destroying habitats( WWF, 2020). Rewilding gives nature a chance to re-establish its natural state of biodiversity and abundance.
FUTURE-ORIENTED SCIENCE ACTION
Rewilding Is about restoring natural processes for wildlife, people and climate. It aims to reintroduce lost animal species back to ecosystems. It can create opportunities for ecological restoration, wildlife watching and sustainable use of natural resources. The Rewilding science-action prepares students to plan a campaign presentation that will convince the public to rewild one animal. Students will use their knowledge of interdependence, and the enquiry skills of weighing up evidence to support a claim.
SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)
15- Life on land
The Center for Combating Slave Labor and Human Trafficking (CETE) is based at UNEB Campus XVI in Irecê under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Ana Karine Loula Torres Rocha and her team including Prof. Ms. José Allankardec Fernandes Rodrigues and Prof. Dr. José Humberto da Silva (consultor). A key collaborator is UNEB’s Salvador campus, represented by Prof. Dr. Silvar Ferreira Ribeiro, Prof. Dr. Sônia Maria da Conceição Pinto, and Prof. Dr. Hebert Vieira Durães who coordinate open schooling initiatives. This initiative also receives support from UNEB’s Rector, Prof. Dr. Adriana dos Santos Marmori Lima, and benefits from international collaboration with the Open University UK, represented by Dr. Alexandra Okada.
In alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), CETE utilizes open education and open schooling including mobile technologies to promote economic growth, inclusive and sustainable employment, and decent work for all, as well as SDG 4 (Quality Education). The Brazilian Constitution of 1988 affirms work as a social right, ensuring dignity and social protection for workers. However, many still face exploitative working conditions; slave labour remains a criminal offense under Article 149 of the Brazilian Penal Code.
Education and Social Inclusion as a Strategy for Preventing Slave Labor
In this context, CETE was created, the first clinic in the Northeast with this focus, as a proposal to confront this reality; within it, we commit to our political, scientific, and social vocation based on the relationship between UNIVERSITY – TERRITORY – DEVELOPMENT from the perspective of sustainability, science, technology, and innovation with social responsibility and open schooling. Supported by the CARE-KNOW-DO framework, one of the initial challenges of this project is to engage adult learners in reflecting on the local context, contributing to raising awareness of the condition of slave labor.
As a strategy to confront this issue, it is necessary to strengthen the interdisciplinary support network, integrating areas such as education, law, and health, in pursuit of actions promoting decent work and protecting human rights in the workforce, prioritizing vulnerable individuals and communities, promoting equal opportunities, and proposing regional and local development strategies that foster community bonds and inclusive, sustainable economic growth.
Among the activities already developed by the University of the State of Bahia in teaching, research, and outreach is its strong connection with public basic education schools, directly interacting with administrators, teachers, students, and their families. Youth and Adult Education (EJA), one of these fields, targets individuals who missed regular schooling, comprising a group of men and women, workers who, as verified, fit the profile of those recruited for seasonal farm work. Focusing on these individuals can be a relevant strategy to prepare them to face this harsh reality. Educating, raising awareness, preventing, and training for more skilled jobs can certainly help reduce their vulnerability, preventing recruitment into this illegal activity.
The Connect 2030 Project, already underway in the region in the cities of Ibipeba, Lapão, Irecê, and Presidente Dutra, supports this process by delivering science education based on real socio-scientific issues, involving families, other societal segments, university scientists, and policymakers, contributing over the past three years to improve local education and projects for expansion and consolidation of its results.
Today, CETE is part of a network of legal clinics in Brazil addressing slave labor and human trafficking, including:
Slave Labor and Human Trafficking Clinic at the UFMG Law School / MG;
CETE: Anti-Slave Labor Clinic at UNEB / BA;
Human Trafficking and Slave Labor Clinic at João Pessoa University Center – UNIPÊ / PE;
CETE – Anti-Slave Labor Clinic – UFU Law School / Uberlândia / MG;
CARE:
This open education community supported by open schooling highlights the following project goals:
Support and strengthen actions promoting Decent Work, developed by the public sector, social organizations, and private sector in the Irecê region;
Implement strategies promoting decent work with the protection of human rights in the workforce, prioritizing vulnerable individuals and communities, promoting equal opportunities, and proposing a regional and local development strategy capable of strengthening community bonds and fostering inclusive, sustainable economic growth;
Develop actions through social dialogue for mutual collaboration, respect, institutional capacities, and concrete actions, acting individually and collectively to promote decent work in the region, aiming at building a Network for Promoting Decent Work;
Undertake preventive, intervention, and follow-up actions for individuals who are victims of slave labor and human trafficking across various fields such as education, law, and health.
KNOW:
According to recent research, SmartLab 2023, in Brazil, among victims of slave labor, 64% are Black, with many having low levels of schooling, and most rescued victims are male (93%). In Bahia, Black individuals represent 80% of those rescued, with more than half not completing the 5th grade, and among them, 22% are illiterate. The majority are male (92%) and between 18-29 years old. Research by the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) identified that Irecê / Bahia / Brazil has the highest percentage of modern enslaved individuals on coffee farms in Minas Gerais. Victims of contemporary slave labor and human trafficking are in a situation of grave social and emotional vulnerability.
Through research conducted by the Federal University of Minas Gerais – UFMG, between 2002 and 2022, it was identified that the region of Irecê / Bahia / Brazil had the highest percentage of modern enslaved individuals on coffee plantations in the State of Minas Gerais: 420 individuals. Victims of human trafficking for purposes of labor analogous to slavery, by the end of July 2024, in the interior of MG, on coffee farms, totaled 46, with these numbers: São Gabriel (06) / Lapão (03) / Mirangaba (01) / Canarana (13) / Irecê (01) / Morro do Chapéu (03) / Jussara (14) / Ourolândia (02) / Cafarnaum (03); at the end of August 2024, in the Federal District, at Grupo Pluma farms, an additional 10 individuals were counted: Xique-Xique (06) / Nova Ibiá (02) / Bonito (02). All these people, victims of contemporary slavery and human trafficking, are in a situation of severe social and emotional vulnerability.
DO:
Working Groups:
Guidance / Legal support;
Psychosocial health;
Scientific Studies and Communication;
Responsible Research and Innovation;
Open Education with Open Schooling;
Professional Training / Capacity Building.
Actions:
Participation and Contribution to the I Regional Seminar in Irecê on Decent Work;
Signing of a Commitment Agreement between UNEB and UFMG, in addition to the Regional Pact for Promoting Decent Work;
CETE Itinerant;
Creation of a Research Group registered with CNPq;
Offering an elective course in undergraduate and graduate studies;
Participatory Design of Resources, Technologies, and Pedagogies for Open Schooling to raise awareness, prevent, and empower through partnerships between schools, universities, and professional experts.
Partnerships:
OAB; Junior Company – CONSOL; FAEB / SENAR;
Secretariat of Labor, Employment, Income and Sport – SETRE;
Literature: Freire, P. (1996). Pedagogy of the oppressed (revised). New York: Continuum, 356, 357-358.
Freire, P. (1998). Pedagogy of freedom: Ethics, democracy, and civic courage. Rowman & Littlefield.
This practice was part of the training of undergraduates in the Pedagogy Course at the Federal University of Cariri (UFCA), which was recently recognized with the highest score by the Ministry of Education (MEC). The course stands out for its interdisciplinary work, through which educators promote teaching, research, outreach, and culture.
This partnership with the Porteiras School began in 2022, due to research developed in the open schooling axis with digital technologies, in the Pedagogy course and a national partnership linked to CNPQ in which UFCA is connected to studies at UFRJ, UFF, PUC-SP, PUC-PR, UNEB, UFSC, and internationally with the Open University, with studies by Alexandra Okada.
One of the first challenges for Pedagogy undergraduates and basic education students was to open their windows. This process encouraged students to reflect on their local context, to investigate the socio-scientific topics that most interested them. Several disciplines were integrated, from the fields of art, technology, and curriculum, as seen in one of the videos from the exhibition of photo-narratives created by Francione Charapa, at IFE/UFCA.
After this journey of opening the windows for pedagogy students, we implemented an action-research project coordinated by Prof. Dr. Karine Pinheiro at Cirene Maria Esmeraldo School, involving research scholars such as Daniel Alberto, Emerson Gomes, Valeria Vieira, Vivila de Carvalho, Elizete da Silva, Luana Argentina, Marielly, and 85 pedagogy students. At Cirene Maria Esmeraldo School (Kessyo Santos, Thais Coelho, Maria do Socorro Silva and the basic education students at Cirene Maria Esmeraldo School in Porteiras), and in the cultural community at the Quilombo do Souza, with Master Maria de Tiê, Cyda Olímpio, Valéria Pinheiro CIAVATA, and Instituto Anjos Digitais. The project continues with the coordination of university extension activities, with the Freirean Movement led by Prof. Darliane Amaral and the appreciation of multiple cultural expressions, which was also supported by the Voices of Cariri Project, led by Prof. Dr. Ligia Rodrigues.
This open schooling community highlights two examples that integrate the use of digital technologies to support the training of educators focused on creative processes through various digital genres, fostering open schooling:
The first example was featured in the Teaching Initiation Program, particularly during the First Meeting of the Institutional Program of Teaching Initiation Scholarships (EnPibid/UFCA) and the First Meeting of the Pedagogical Residency Program (ERP/UFCA) at the Federal University of Cariri (UFCA). Approximately 20 papers were published by undergraduate students, who developed communication skills, teamwork, expanded vocabulary, and a decolonial perspective on the curriculum. As part of the intersectoral integration between the university and schools, 24 workshops and a thematic panel were developed in collaboration with the State University of Bahia (UNEB), alongside Professor Silvar Ribeiro. This connection reinforced the bond between the university, schools, and the community.
The second example refers to activities in a basic education school in the municipality of Porteiras, aimed at analyzing the educational projects developed by basic education students. These projects were aligned with the pillars of open schooling and the development of the C5 Generation (creative, critical, collaborative, communicative, and civic-minded). In both examples, literacy and scientific education were promoted from basic education onward, embedded within a cybercultural context, involving undergraduates, teachers, and students engaged in open schooling.
CARE:
The undergraduate students in the Pedagogy Program at the Institute of Educator Training were involved in research, outreach, and cultural projects tied to real-life themes from their community. These activities occurred both at the university, with courses like Digital Technologies and Pedagogical Innovations, and in basic education schools. Guided by Professor Karine Pinheiro, these initiatives expanded research in basic education and established partnerships between schools, the community, and the third sector, focusing on the creation of school projects using the open schooling approach.
KNOW:
The project engaged digital natives (Prensky, 2010), who developed creative processes through new digital genres, experiencing the power of technology to express ideas in multiple forms. We observed a growing use of video, with students sharing stories, reels, and TikTok videos. Consequently, the cultural practice of using images was intensified with audiovisual production, marked by the multimodal nature of language in the cybercultural context (Santos, 2014). Through various disciplines, students experienced this new approach, incorporating fieldwork where they encountered popular, scientific, and cultural knowledge, all of which had unimaginable impacts on open schooling (Okada, 2016).
In addition, several workshops were designed to map concrete issues and geographic areas using Google Earth to identify locations, aiming for authentic co-learning.
DO:
The educational projects developed by students during 2023-2024 involved multiple societal actors, reinforcing democratic practices, valuing diversity, promoting solidarity, and addressing environmental issues. These initiatives fostered autonomy, helping students become active citizens within their community. This process was grounded in the principles of open schooling for the development of scientific education, open access, public engagement, and governance.
Through these activities, students became cultural producers on themes such as solid waste, cultural heritage, water conservation, and animal protection. Another highlighted competence was the expansion of socio-scientific vision. Both basic education and university students presented their projects at scientific events. As a result of this study, we introduce a Podcast Channel with around 1,800 views, showcasing the active involvement of cultural practitioners, who became reflective producers and developed a situated practice through continuous debate. The impact of this activity at the UFCA Brejo Santo campus became “glocal” (Silva, 2005).
Image – Recycling Workshop and Selective Waste Collection Campaign
Source: Produced by the authors
Results from Teachers (Six basic education teachers from Cirene Maria Esmeraldo Municipal School):
Pedagogical innovation using real, relevant contexts for students related to:
Publication of 14 scientific papers: ENPIBID/2023, IV Biology Meeting (IFE/UFCA).
Results from Undergraduate Students – Pedagogy (85 students) and Basic Education Students (Municipality of Porteiras):
Creation of an educational device – IFECast: My Community, a project involving interdisciplinary undergraduates and pedagogy students. The project involved various pedagogical moments for engagement within the IFE/UFCA community, through open schooling, exploring identity, meaning, and practice. This was facilitated by problematizing their reality.
We share the channel for this C5 Generation of Co-Entrepreneurs – IFECast: My Community, featuring audiovisual narratives about field visits to quilombola communities, environmental trail discoveries, storytelling creation, photo-narrative exhibitions, and interviews that inspired teaching discoveries through diverse digital genres. About 45 videos are available at: YouTube Channel: IFECast: My Community and on Instagram at: @ifecast_ufca.
The central idea of the activity was to spark students’ curiosity by using news stories to connect science content to everyday life. The goal was for students to understand the relationship between the nervous system and the impact of psychoactive substances on the body, promoting greater interaction with their families and extending reflection beyond the classroom. Additionally, students were encouraged to engage with scientists to foster interest in pursuing STEM or science-related careers.
As part of the activities, teachers were given suggestions aligned with the National Common Curricular Base (BNCC), specifically for the 6th grade, within the thematic unit “Life and Evolution.” Among the suggested skills, students worked on explaining the functioning of the nervous system and how it can be affected by psychoactive substances (EF06CI10), as well as justifying the role of the nervous system in coordinating motor and sensory actions based on its structures (EF06CI07).
Throughout the project, teachers had the freedom to apply Augmented Reality (AR) cards as they saw fit, promoting a dynamic and tailored exploration of the content for the students.
The students participated in a series of activities in three distinct phases, aiming to explore the functioning of the nervous system and the impact of psychoactive substances on the body using AR technologies and interactions with scientists.
– CARE: Students were encouraged to care about everyday issues raised by a news story related to the use of psychoactive substances. They explored how the nervous system can be affected by these substances using AR cards to visualize neurons, axons, and dendrites. This phase piqued students’ curiosity and motivated a deeper exploration of the content.
– KNOW: Students discussed the role of the nervous system in coordinating motor and sensory actions of the body. They also addressed how science can clarify the damage caused to the body by psychoactive substances and discussed the social impacts of substance consumption. The class listed the main problems related to the topic, broadening their understanding of the associated risks.
– DO: Students were encouraged to take the knowledge they acquired to their families. They were tasked with discussing the subject at home and bringing questions and curiosities to the scientists. Families also proposed actions to combat the problems identified in the previous phase, and students brought these ideas back to the classroom in the following session.
In the **Closing** phase, students watched a video with a guest scientist who answered their questions and explained how knowledge of the nervous system is related to their field of expertise. This brought students closer to scientific practice and stimulated their interest in scientific careers. After the video, students completed a questionnaire about the activities and the knowledge they had gained.
Teacher Training: A 60-hour course trained 1,000 public school teachers across Brazil in using augmented reality (AR) content in the classroom. The activities aimed to engage students with real-world questions and problems, encouraging them to explore and acquire knowledge through reflection with AR, as well as through practical actions involving the community and family. These discussions extended beyond the school environment, adhering to the principles of open schooling.
Project Focus: The project centred on:
Effective Learning: Promoting digital AR skills through exploration, visualisation, discussion, and visual comprehension.
Inclusion, Equity, and Gender Equality: Enhancing multi-literacy for both youth and adults.
All content aligned with the subjects teachers already cover in class, but with an open schooling approach—addressing real-world issues relevant to students and applying this knowledge in the community.
Safe and Inclusive Learning Environments: Teachers reported that the project significantly enhanced learning environments by offering engaging, immersive, and innovative digital content. Promoting science through digital education aligned with new teaching methodologies for future generations. The project gained recognition from Brazil’s Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation.
Recently, President Lula signed the National Digital Education Plan into law. The AR project in schools represents a major contribution to promoting open science, aligning its content with the National Digital Education Plan and the National Common Core Curriculum (BNC
**Teaching Results**
The results showed varying levels of teacher confidence regarding the activities:
1. **Small Group Discussions (A08)**: 83% of teachers felt confident.
2. **Use of Questions for Divergent Thinking (A07)**: 76% of teachers felt confident.
3. **Interaction with Researchers and Scientists (A05)**: 71% of teachers felt confident.
4. **Encouraging Participation in Science Activities Outside School (A04)**: 71% of teachers felt confident.
5. **Promoting Discussions on Science and Society (A02) & Helping Generate Evidence-Based Questions (A03)**: Over 70% of teachers felt confident.
6. **Teaching Scientific Inquiry with Real-World Problems (A01)**: 65% of teachers felt confident.
7. **Encouraging Discussion of Scientific Topics with Family (A06)**: 66% of teachers felt confident, with 24% feeling less confident.
In all activities, only a small percentage (less than 5%) felt very unsure.
**Learning Outcomes**
Students generally demonstrate a positive attitude toward science and its importance. The vast majority (82%) agree or strongly agree that learning science will be useful in their daily lives. Even more (86%) recognize the importance of science, technology, and mathematics for problem-solving.
There is a strong belief (87%) among students that science helps people worldwide lead pleasant and healthy lives, indicating an understanding of science’s global impact.
However, when it comes to personal confidence in science, the results are more mixed. Only about a third of students (31%) feel confident in their science knowledge, with a similar proportion (31%) feeling confident using mathematics to solve scientific problems. Slightly more students (42%) feel confident using science to generate questions and ideas.
Students show more confidence in their ability to justify views using arguments and evidence, with 43% feeling confident in this area. This suggests that while they may not feel as confident in their scientific knowledge, they have developed some critical thinking skills.
Regarding practical application, nearly half of the students (48%) feel confident in doing science projects with colleagues, family, and scientists. A similar proportion (49%) feel confident talking about science, indicating a willingness to engage with scientific topics.
Encouragingly, the vast majority (80%) of students express interest in doing projects with others using science, suggesting a desire for collaborative, hands-on learning experiences in science.
When it comes to enjoyment and future aspirations, 57% of students find learning science fun. However, opinions are more divided on career prospects, with 42% interested in a job that uses science, and 37% aspiring to be seen as experts in science. These results highlight the importance of integrating engaging pedagogies with the meaningful use of AR for immersive learning across all areas, supporting sustainability goals.
Overall, while students generally recognize the importance and value of science, there is room for improvement in building their confidence and skills in scientific practices. The data suggests that hands-on, collaborative approaches to science education might be particularly well-received by students.
This project was carried out with traditional communities, focusing on digital literacy and solidarity economy. These activities were integrated into local practices of handicrafts and family farming, two key economic pillars for these communities. Additionally, the project emphasized gender equity, giving a voice and space to women, the majority of whom are homemakers, students, and teachers. The participants’ ages and occupations were diverse, including young adolescents in basic education, teachers, homemakers, and artisan workers. There was also significant ethnic diversity, representing different traditional ethnic groups from Ceará. The project incorporated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), aiming to bring real and sustainable change to the lives of these communities.
Theme: Digital literacy and solidarity economy were the central themes of the activities. Digital literacy was seen as an essential tool for the participants, allowing them not only to learn how to use technology but also to apply it in their daily realities, especially in strengthening their economic initiatives. The solidarity economy was explored as a collaborative model, where artisanal production and family farming are viewed not just as sources of income but also as forms of resistance and autonomy for these communities.
CARE: One of the standout groups was “Trama de Mulheres Pretas” (Weave of Black Women), which has a long tradition in producing handicrafts and local foods. These women faced several challenges in using digital technologies, especially in seeking information, communicating, and promoting their products. The lack of access to technology and initial unfamiliarity with its potential hindered their economic growth and the visibility of their work. However, with the project’s support, they gradually overcame these barriers, acquiring new digital skills that allowed them to expand their networks and reach new markets.
KNOW: Knowledge sharing was one of the pillars of the project, particularly in terms of forming associations and strengthening local entrepreneurship. Through workshops and continuous training, participants developed skills in management, organization, and marketing of their products, increasing their ability to act independently. Furthermore, understanding the dynamics of the solidarity economy was crucial for the women to realize the power of cooperation and self-sufficiency in their communities. They began to see their traditional practices in a new light, integrating them into a broader context of collaborative economy.
DO: One of the project’s most significant outcomes was the production of videos by the participants themselves, in which they shared their stories, challenges, and achievements. These videos were published on YouTube, serving as a platform for their voices to be heard beyond local boundaries. This initiative not only expanded the visibility of the women’s work but also boosted their self-esteem and recognition of their capabilities. The creation of these videos was an empowering process, where each woman could share her journey of overcoming obstacles and personal growth, inspiring other women and communities.
Impact on Education: The project had a profound impact on how the participating women and their communities viewed education. By addressing local problems collaboratively, the project facilitated co-learning between the women and the facilitators, aligning the training with the challenges faced by the communities. This process resulted in a deeper understanding of the challenges encountered by the women in both personal and professional spheres. The unity and solidarity that emerged from this shared learning strengthened bonds among the participants and generated collective solutions to the problems they face daily.
Impact on Participants: Through observation and active engagement in the project, the women rediscovered the “right to dream” and began to believe in the possibility of improving their lives. Many reported that before the project, they felt limited by circumstances and the few opportunities available. As the activities developed, they started to envision new horizons. One of the participants summed up this transformation by saying, “Today I give myself the right to dream, and I can improve my life.” Another added, “Now I can dream.” The contact with other women involved in the project brought strength and motivation to the trainers, educators, and managers from the NGO Anjos Digitais, as one of them shared: “Being in contact with these women gives me strength. Even though it seems small, it’s enormous for them.” The experience also highlighted the importance of affection and mutual support, creating a space where everyone could learn and grow as equals. “We arrived as equals and co-learned together, on equal footing,” said another participant, reflecting on the spirit of cooperation that permeated the entire process. This feeling of unity and solidarity, through the “CARE-KNOW-DO together,” filled the hearts of the participants with love and energy, empowering them to face new challenges and paving the way for future actions.
Greece is dealing with some serious climate issues lately. Students are seeing more heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires, all made worse by climate change. The Mediterranean area, where Greece is, is especially at risk. During the summer of 2021, there were huge wildfires that destroyed forests, homes, and people’s lives. Students considered weather forecasting important for various reasons:
Disaster Prep: Knowing the weather in advance helps us get ready for extreme events like heatwaves, storms, and wildfires, making them less deadly and damaging.
Farming: Farmers need weather forecasts to decide when to plant, water, and harvest their crops.
Public Safety: Forecasts help keep people safe by warning us about extreme temperatures and bad air quality.
Tourism: Tourism is a big deal for Greece’s economy, and weather conditions can seriously affect it. Good forecasts can make sure tourists stay safe and have a great time.
Know: Students conducted a research project on meteorology, focusing on cloud classification and weather systems. They learned that Luke Howard introduced the three main cloud types—cumulus, stratus, and cirrus—in 1803, and in 1918, it was discovered that weather changes are caused by the interaction of warm and cold air masses.
Do: Using AI, the students classified clouds into 10 subcategories based on altitude. They trained a neural network with photos of different cloud types, testing its accuracy with new images. The project included developing a mobile app for cloud identification and correlating the AI predictions with data from their school’s weather station to forecast local weather
Findings related to the Open Schooling approach: The activities carried out during the implementation of the Connect project were included in the upper secondary curriculum – Information Technologies (IT). We can also mention that the materials provided were useful in preparing and implementing lessons with students. The topic addressed was also relevant and innovative from a scientific and educational point of view, being debated globally. Thus, students had the opportunity to know and experience individually the ways in which they can get involved in predicting weather and support climate action enhanced by Artificial Technologies. Open schooling was found useful for other teachers because students focused on activities connecting various subjects supported by transdisciplinarity approach and an exchange of good practices can be made between teachers who have implemented in different schools who want to join us.
Student achievements: Students were enthusiastic to participate in volunteering and greening activities where they could observe, for example, classification of clouds, how to use drones, and develop a learning machine system trained to examine photos and classifying images. This process helping to plan better interventions for climate change and improve quality of life.
The students involved have formed their scientific research skills, actively participating in the realization of projects and studies on Artificial Intelligence, being able to apply the knowledge learned after going through the support materials coding and using ML for kids tool.
Care: Students have been actively involved in scientific and educational activities on plastic pollution, a real-life problem that has a significant impact on quality of life. The students who participated in the activities were from grades IX-XI, aged between 15-18 years, being approximately 85 students participating.
Know: Students used knowledge about plastics discovered in the discipline of chemistry – phases of biodegradation of plastics, chemical composition of plastic, stages of making biodegradable plastic, results obtained by researchers on the period of decomposition of biodegradable plastic in nature, etc. (describe scientific topics). The competences that the students practiced were:
Brainstorming debates;
Carrying out individual or team projects through the aspects subject to research;
Involvement in volunteering and greening activities;
Discussions on the use of biodegradable materials and their decomposition in nature;
Analysis of plastics (PET bottle, plastic bags, household bags, etc.);
Documentation to identify the real situation in the field;
Conducting information campaigns on the risks of White Pollution;
Explanation of symbols on packaging labels;
Do: At the end, students prepared posters, posters, thematic drawings, questionnaires, information campaign, research projects. They carried out the activities individually and in teams, being supported by their families, but also by volunteers from non-governmental organizations.
Findings related to the Open Schooling approach: The activities carried out during the implementation of the Connect project were included in the curriculum. We can also mention that the materials provided were useful in preparing and implementing lessons with students. The topic addressed in Year 3 was also relevant and innovative from a scientific and educational point of view, being debated globally. Thus, students had the opportunity to know and experience individually the ways in which they can get involved in preventing and combating environmental pollution. Open schooling could also be useful for other teachers because we can focus on transdisciplinarity and an exchange of good practices can be made between teachers who have implemented in year 2 and 3 and teachers who want to join us.
Student achievements: Students were enthusiastic to participate in volunteering and greening activities where they could observe, for example, the phases of biodegradation, but also connected with nature, helping to protect the environment and improve quality of life.
The students involved have formed their scientific research skills, actively participating in the realization of projects and studies on White Pollution, being able to apply the knowledge learned after going through the support materials.
News . Events Sustainable development through environmental projects
Care: The students were involved and interested in a real-life problem: to what extent the environment contributes to the sustainable development of mankind through planting trees by students, either from saplings or seeds. The students who participated in the activities were of secondary level, aged 11-14 years.
Know: Students used knowledge about sustainable development, environment, food resources and environment. The competences that the students practiced were:
– Analyzing the impact of technology development on the environment and society
– Training the capacity for design, execution, evaluation, use and capitalization of products
– Evaluation of personal resources and formation of initiative and entrepreneurship spirit in career planning.
Do: In the end, students prepared posters and planted trees in the school garden, carried out the activities both in groups and individually, being supported by families and community members.
* Identifying the possibilities of capitalizing on food products of mineral, vegetable and animal origin
*Analysis of links between food production activities and specific trades/professions
– Description of the main resources needed to carry out family production and consumption activities
Findings related to the Open Schooling approach: The activity is part of the curriculum at the school’s decision. It was useful, relevant, challenging, innovative and contributed to the formation of the above-mentioned skills. Open schooling could be challenging for other teachers as it contributes to civic spirit and sustainable development.
Student results: Students were interested in this type of project, because it adds value to sustainable development and environmental protection. They proved pleasure in carrying out practical activities and formed social-moral skills in Open Schooling. The most relevant comment of a sixth grader was: “The world develops from seed and everything is possible through the evolution of science and God’s care.”
News . Events Environmental education – monitoring of protected natural areas in Prahova County
Care: Students were involved, interested or concerned about monitoring the state of forests Protected Natural Area – Plopeni Forest and Glodeasa Forest, a real-life problem, the vegetation state of the forest, the age of trees, the diameter of trees, their height. Students who participated in the activities were 17-19 years old, eleventh and twelfth grades, forestry and natural sciences.
Know: Students used knowledge about forestry, environment, ecology. The competences that students practiced were the ability to use measuring instruments, to correctly determine diameters, tree heights and appreciation of their ages, students’ questions were related to the composition of the forest and the presence of dead wood fallen to the ground that has not been extracted, maintenance of forest roads, information and clarifications that were presented and explained by both guiding teachers and partner representatives, all of which can be found in individual student portfolios.
Do: At the end, students prepared posters, campaign, infographic, video, interviews. They made PPT presentations, portfolios and were supported by families and representatives of the above-mentioned partners, former students of the college.
Findings related to the Open Schooling approach: The activity was framed in C.D.L., in the curriculum. It was useful, relevant, challenging, innovative, interesting and appealing, as evidenced by the attached photos. Open schooling could be useful for other teachers because it has an inter and transdisciplinary character – practical applications, worksheets from the work for obtaining the first didactic degree of Professor Ifrimu Iulia – Apprendre et developper le lexique du domaine forestier: approches didactiques en classe de FLE.
Results obtained by students: Students were curious, pleasantly impressed, attracted by field trips, whose memory created confidence that they will become students of forestry and biology faculties in the future. As an example, one student mentioned: “it is much easier to determine the height of trees with state-of-the-art devices – vertices than with old dendrometers in the school’s equipment” which is relevant and related to their achievements.
Care: Students were interested in learning about the negative environmental effects of plastic waste currently choking the planet, plastics disposal scenarios, and the advantages of using bioplastics over conventional plastics. Students who participated in the activities are aged 17-18, twelfth grade, 26 in number, basic field: natural resources and environmental protection.
Know: Based on the knowledge gained and by solving the tasks in the worksheets presented in the project, students developed skills of analysis and awareness of the negative effects of plastic on the environment and offered the opportunity to propose ways to reduce pollution with this type of waste.
Do: In the end, students made informative leaflets about the negative effects of plastics, drawings and models about the need to reduce plastic use, thematic articles in the school magazine. Family members were also involved in the activities, together carrying out activities to reduce pollution and raise awareness of the transition from linear plastic consumption to circular consumption.
Findings related to the Open Schooling approach: The activity is framed in the curriculum, within the environmental protection module, according to the qualification of the class that participated in the project. It was a challenging activity, which managed to actively involve students, families and members of the local community in collecting a large amount of plastics at school level, and from its capitalization was purchased planting material for the green space of the school. Open schooling could be challenging for other teachers as it provides opportunities to raise awareness of the need to reduce plastic use and build an environmental awareness that it passes on to students.
Student results: Students were actively involved and challenged in obtaining bioplastics from corn starch, acetic acid and glycerine and in selectively collecting a large amount of plastic mass. As an example, one student mentioned, “If we all use so much plastic and don’t stop, then we’re going to suffocate the Earth as fast as possible.”
News . Events Actions to reduce the carbon footprint
Care: Students were interested in finding out new information about pollution, they actively participated in the lessons on Carbon neutral proposed by the CONNECT project, a real-life problem “carbon footprint” was highlighted, each student made their own calculation and realized the importance of reducing it. The students who participated in the activities were in the eleventh grade the branch: technological, profile: technical, basic field: natural resources and environmental protection, qualification: ecological technician and environmental quality protection, 18 in number.
Know: Students used knowledge about environmental pollution through combustion reactions, identified where carbon dioxide emissions come from, from different activities: transport, energy production, agriculture and different industries. The competences that students practiced were: identified problems, applied knowledge about Earth’s atmosphere and global warming, developed teamwork skills, played the role of journalist, politician, architect or construction engineer, developed calculation skills, considered different perspectives for reducing carbon dioxide emissions and proposed solutions through the role they played, have developed skills to consider the economic and social consequences of environmental pollution.
Do: At the end, the students prepared different materials: posters, drawing – green house, report made by the journalist, article proposed by the researcher (scientist), article proposed by the politician regarding laws that will be applied to reduce pollution. They carried out the activities in groups of 3 to 4 and were supported by families.
Findings related to the Open Schooling approach: The activity is framed in the curriculum to the qualification of the class that participated in the project.
It was very useful, the lessons were held during the green school week, students received rich and useful information through this project, they were also put in the situation to look for information and propose solutions to reduce the carbon footprint, to be involved and useful to society.
Open schooling could be useful and challenging for other teachers because each of us carries a carbon footprint and we need to act to reduce it. The teacher must be a positive role model for the students.
The results obtained by the students: Students were happily involved in activities, developed different skills, confidence in science, sought solutions to problems related to environmental pollution with carbon dioxide, provided positive feedback at the end of the activities. As an example, one student mentioned the following conclusion: “the carbon neutral approach is essential in combating climate change, it is important to recognize examples that demonstrate genuine commitment and concrete actions in reducing greenhouse gases.”
Care: The students were interested in a real-life issue related to responsible food consumption that represents a conscious food choice, taking into account aspects related to our decisions regarding health, environment, economy, culture, etc. Carrying out social responsibility activities plays an important role in how participants will understand why making any decision about personal food can have negative consequences / irreversible on an important part of our planet. . The students who participated in the activities were students aged 3-18, from preschool, primary, secondary and high school. A total of 825 students participated in these activities.
Know: Students used knowledge about food waste by watching documentaries on the effects of food waste, conducting a case study at economic agents in the city – 3 restaurants, by visiting the bread factory in the city, making leaflets with information through which we can reduce food waste, making a trophic pyramid, healthy breakfast and making figurines of fruits and vegetables, drawing up posters.
The competences that the students practiced were:
Motivating students to adopt a balanced and economical lifestyle;
Encouraging students to find practical and effective ways to reduce food waste;
Developing interdisciplinary connections to draw public attention to food waste;
Changing the attitude of students, their families, school teachers towards food waste.
Do: At the end, students prepared posters, leaflets, posters, interview, video. They carried out the activities in groups but also individually, being supported by family and community members.
Findings related to the Open Schooling approach: The activity was framed in the curriculum. It was challenging and useful because students’ confidence and self-esteem increased as a result of participating in complex activities that highlighted their abilities and required them to make decisions. The improvement of social skills was reflected through cooperation at the level of working groups and students’ roles in this context, through the relationship with colleagues in school. Open schooling could be challenging for other teachers because it increases creativity levels among both teachers and students.
Results obtained by students: Students were interested in the topic proposed for research and showed interest in participating in other activities aimed at the practical and applicative character of the given topic
Care Stage: Students did introductory activities on mental health. A total of 75 students participated.
Know stage: During participatory research in which they detected their needs and designed an action plan with various activities. They put mental health knowledge into practice and expanded it.
Stage Do: The activities were designed to be carried out the next course, we lacked time to do this stage.
Results related to the Open Schooling approach: Undoubtedly, participatory research has allowed them to treballar competències i sabers inclosos en el currículum de 3r d’ESO, però també d’altres que no hi estan directament especificades.
Support for the implementation of educational resources by: the department and the Living Lab of IrsiCaixa
Student results: The students were able to integrate certain knowledge and skills. Still, if we had given more time to conduct participatory research, the results would have been more satisfying. The students actively participate in the dynamics proposed to them.
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