Using connected learning pedagogy, pupils explored shared natural phenomena, such as biodiversity and genetic diversity, from both local and global perspectives. The approach encouraged collaboration between schools, researchers and teachers, sparking creativity and deepening understanding.
In addition to the FORGENIUS partners Luke, GIS, INRA, EFI and BFW, the Talvisalo School in Savonlinna, Finland, the Elementary School Spodnja Šiška in Ljubljana, Slovenia, as well as the University of Eastern Finland, took part in this task.
An online workshop introduced the method to FORGENIUS experts and aligned it with school curricula. Teachers were central to the planning, supported by pedagogical expertise from the University of Eastern Finland.
Despite delays due to COVID-19, the project was implemented over one school year. Researchers from Luke and GIS visited the school classes in their respective countries and guided excursions to local forest sites, enriching the learning experience and supporting pupils’ exploration of selected phenomena.
The pilot was carefully documented and is now available for broader use and potential European scaling:
🔗 forgeniusforschools.metsabiotalous.fi
The collaboration continues in 2026 with a new Erasmus+ project, Forest for Future – Science and Environmental Education for Primary Schools in Finland and Slovenia.