Zielona Szkoła (Green School)
Tool/methodology name:
Zielona Szkoła, or Green School, is an immersive outdoor education program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of environmental and cultural heritage.
Location:
Poland (Various locations, often in natural parks)
Type of initiative:
Protection of natural heritage
Protection of cultural heritage
Target groups
Primary and secondary school students
Objectives
The primary objectives of Zielona Szkoła are to provide students with immersive environmental education experiences that foster a deep connection with nature and enhance their understanding of cultural heritage. By engaging in hands-on activities and direct interaction with natural and cultural environments, the program aims to promote environmental stewardship, cultural appreciation, and positive attitudes towards nature and heritage conservation.
Description
Students participating in Zielona Szkoła are involved in a variety of educational activities designed to deepen their understanding of environmental issues, conservation practices, and cultural heritage. These activities include guided hikes, where students explore different habitats and learn about the flora and fauna native to the region. Wildlife observation sessions allow students to see animals in their natural habitats and understand their roles in the ecosystem. Ecological workshops are a key component of the program, offering practical lessons on topics such as biodiversity, sustainable practices, and the impact of human activities on the environment. Students also participate in conservation projects, such as tree planting, habitat restoration, and clean-up activities, which provide them with hands-on experience in environmental stewardship. In addition to environmental education, Zielona Szkoła emphasizes the protection of cultural heritage. Students visit historical sites and landmarks, learning about the cultural significance and history of these places. Workshops on traditional crafts, folklore, and local history help students appreciate and understand the cultural heritage of the region.
Results
The Zielona Szkoła program has been shown to significantly enhance students' understanding of local ecosystems, environmental issues, and cultural heritage. Participants often develop a greater sense of environmental stewardship, cultural appreciation, and a more positive attitude towards nature and heritage conservation. The hands-on, experiential learning approach helps to reinforce the importance of conservation and sustainable practices, leading to long-term behavioral changes in students.
Innovative elements
Zielona Szkoła combines outdoor education with experiential learning to create a unique and impactful educational experience. By taking students out of the traditional classroom setting and immersing them in nature and cultural sites, the program fosters a deeper connection with the environment and heritage.