 We’re incredibly proud to celebrate the success of our good friends and partner school in Croatia, Elementary School Sibinjskih žrtava, whose Tesla’s Classroom project was recently recognised as one of the most successful initiatives in the country under the EEA Grants-funded “Local Development and Poverty Reduction” programme. At the national closing ceremony in Zadar, their project received second place in the public vote – a true testament to the passion and dedication of the students, teachers, partners, and the wider community. As partners in the EEA Grants-funded STEM projects in Croatia, we at GeoCamp Iceland have followed their journey with admiration. Tesla’s Classroom is a shining example of what happens when curiosity, creativity, and sustainability come together. From a fully equipped modern STEM learning space to a rooftop solar power plant, a greenhouse, and an outdoor learning gazebo – this initiative offers students a hands-on, real-world education that encourages research, critical thinking, and environmental responsibility, in true Tesla spirit. Congratulations to everyone involved in this inspiring project! We are honoured to be your partners and look forward to continuing our collaboration where science, technology, and nature build the future together. You can read more about our project with Sibinj Elementary School here.  In March 2025, a small team from GeoCamp Iceland travelled to Odense, Denmark, to attend the Big Bang Conference – Denmark’s largest event focused on science education. Big Bang brings together educators from all levels who teach or work with science and STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). This marks the second year in a row that GeoCamp Iceland has participated in the conference alongside teachers from the Reykjanes Peninsula – a tradition we hope will continue. “Big Bang offers a wide variety of sessions and resources for STEAM educators. From workshops to talks, there’s something for every age group and subject focus. While it helps to speak Danish, I managed just fine using Google Translate, and most participants were happy to switch to English if needed. What stood out to me was how diverse educational materials are in Denmark, and how actively companies and institutions engage with schools. It was also inspiring to see the level of volunteer involvement in educational initiatives.” Sara Ross Bjarnadóttir, Information and Technology teacher at Gerðaskóli, Suðurnesjabær Over two vibrant days, teachers explored creative ways to bring science into the classroom and beyond – with many sessions highlighting the value of outdoor learning. The conference was also a fantastic opportunity to connect with colleagues, exchange ideas, and feel the strength of a wider educational community. “For me, attending Big Bang wasn’t just about discovering new teaching methods. It was also about finding common ground with teachers from other schools – even other countries – who face similar challenges and share the same passion for teaching. It made me feel less alone and more inspired. I learned a lot, gathered new tools and ideas for both short and long-term projects, and gained fresh motivation. One highlight was the opening keynote by Carsten Rahbek on biodiversity. His talk was powerful yet hopeful – showing complex topics in a visual, engaging way. Even with the serious tone of climate urgency, it left us all more knowledgeable and inspired.” Hildur Sigfúsdóttir, Science teacher at Heiðarskóli, Reykjanesbær At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe that international collaboration and exposure to best practices strengthen both our teachers and students. Big Bang 2025 gave us new insights and renewed energy to continue developing exciting learning experiences rooted in nature, sustainability, and science.  As interest in science education, sustainability, and hands-on learning continues to grow, the Reykjanes Peninsula played host to a national conference focused on strengthening the teaching of natural sciences in Icelandic schools. Held at Sandgerði Primary School on 28–29 March, the event brought together educators, researchers, and stakeholders from across the country. The initiative was led by the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, supported by a planning committee representing the University of Iceland, the University of Akureyri, the Icelandic associations of science and primary school teachers, the Suðurnes Science and Learning Centre, and GeoCamp Iceland. The conference is part of a nationwide effort to strengthen natural sciences education, with similar events taking place in different regions every two years. This year marked the first time the conference was hosted on the Reykjanes Peninsula. More than 50 participants attended, including teachers from preschools, primary and secondary schools, representatives of academia, and others involved in the development of science education. The program placed strong emphasis on highlighting local expertise, regional resources, and innovative pedagogical approaches, while also incorporating international perspectives through keynote addresses by Per Arild Konradsen, founder of First Scandinavia, and Professor Douglas Larkin of Montclair State University, both recognised for their contributions to science education and teacher development. Alongside keynote presentations, the conference programme featured a series of workshops and presentations delivered by practising teachers, who shared pedagogical approaches and classroom-based initiatives. The University of Iceland’s School of Education contributed insights on recent changes to national curriculum standards, while additional sessions focused on the integration of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) subjects and the creation of innovative teaching resources. GeoCamp Iceland led the final component of the programme - a field excursion within the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark. Guided by the Director of GeoCamp Iceland, Ólafur Jón Arnbjörnsson, the tour introduced participants to the area’s unique geological landscape, including geothermal activity and sites affected by recent volcanic eruptions and seismic events. The excursion concluded with site visits to Grindavík and Svartsengi, offering a direct view of the effects of recent natural hazards on local communities and infrastructure. GeoCamp Iceland’s participation in the conference underscores our dedication to outdoor education, experiential learning, and the advancement of Earth science and sustainability within both national and international educational contexts. Through the facilitation of real-world learning environments and a focus on scientific literacy, GeoCamp aims to contribute to the development of STEAM education while promoting collaboration across educational levels and sectors. Tools and tips for EU Project Managers from the Green Advisor Project  At GeoCamp Iceland, we’ve been busy with the Green Advisor project — an Erasmus+ supported initiative focused on helping individuals and organisations build more sustainable habits, especially in education, travel, and project work. As the project nears completion, several exciting tools and learning resources are now available — and designed with the real needs of project managers, educators, and international mobility organisers in mind. What is Green Advisor? Green Advisor is a European collaboration focused on greening project management. The goal is to support organisations in reducing their environmental impact by providing free, practical tools and training modules that make it easier to make greener decisions — whether you’re planning an Erasmus+ project, running a mobility programme, or coordinating an international partnership. Try the Self-Assessment Tool Want to find out how green your habits really are? The Green Advisor self-assessment tool is now live in beta! It only takes a few minutes and provides instant insights into your personal or professional sustainability practices. Start your assessment here Explore the Sustainable Travel Module For anyone working in international cooperation or planning educational travel, the Sustainable Travel module offers concrete ideas on how to reduce your carbon footprint, plan better, and make more responsible choices when travelling. Access the training module Coming Soon: Carbon Footprint Calculator One of the most exciting tools from the project is still to come — a Carbon Footprint Calculator designed to help project managers measure and improve the environmental impact of their day-to-day activities. Stay tuned for its release later this year. All these tools are part of a comprehensive training programme developed with real-world needs in mind. Whether you’re managing Erasmus+ projects, planning study tours, or simply aiming to reduce your environmental impact, Green Advisor is a great place to start. The Green Advisor project will be completed later this year — until then, we invite you to explore the tools, give them a try, and let us know what you think. Together, we can make greener choices the easy ones.  We were thrilled to welcome our first student group of the season—students and teachers from Gefion Gymnasium in Copenhagen—who kicked off their Icelandic learning adventure with us at GeoCamp Iceland from 24 to 28 March. Gefion is a returning partner, and we’re always excited to have them back. Their enthusiasm for field-based learning and their engagement with Iceland’s unique landscape make them a perfect fit for GeoCamp’s educational approach. Over the course of four immersive days, the group explored the dynamic Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, journeyed through the geothermal wonders of the Golden Circle, and travelled along the dramatic South Coast. Their experience blended outdoor exploration with meaningful learning—connecting geology, energy, history, and Icelandic culture. Highlights included a visit to the Hellisheiði Power Plant and Carbfix project, where students learned about Iceland’s role in carbon capture innovation, standing in awe at Gullfoss waterfall and the geothermal area of Geysir. On the South Coast, they walked the black sands of Reynisfjara and stood at the foot of Sólheimajökull glacier, directly witnessing the impact of climate change. In Reykjavík, students explored the city’s roots and current political landscape. They visited the Settlement Museum, where they traced the earliest days of urban life in Iceland, and took part in an engaging session at City Hall on Icelandic politics, governance, and civic participation. Gefion’s visit marked a brilliant start to the 2025 season—combining education, nature, and discovery. We’re excited to see many more groups following in their footsteps!  This presentation, delivered at Afyon Kocatepe University on 11 March 2025, explores the role of geoparks in climate education and sustainability, with a specific focus on Iceland’s Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark. It also examines the Geoschools Project, demonstrating how field-based education can empower students and educators to engage with environmental challenges in meaningful ways. It is a pleasure to be here today at Afyon Kocatepe University to discuss a topic that is not only central to my work but is of increasing global importance--climate education through geoparks and sustainability initiatives. My name is Arnbjörn Ólafsson, and I am the Managing Director of GeoCamp Iceland, an organization that specializes in immersive, hands-on learning experiences in earth sciences, STEAM education, and sustainability. At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe that education must extend beyond the classroom. Climate change is a complex and urgent challenge, but understanding it requires more than just theoretical knowledge. To truly grasp its impact, students and educators need to see the changes happening in real time, feel the landscapes shifting beneath their feet, and experience the forces shaping our planet firsthand. Iceland, with its unique combination of volcanic activity, glacial retreat, and renewable energy innovation, provides an ideal setting for this kind of experiential learning. Today, I will discuss how geoparks, and particularly Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, serve as living laboratories for climate education. We will explore how Iceland’s geology, climate, and energy systems can offer valuable lessons for sustainability worldwide. I will also introduce the Geoschools Project, an initiative designed to enhance climate education through field-based learning across different European geoparks. Finally, I will share insights into how we can better integrate outdoor education and international collaboration to equip future generations with the tools and knowledge to respond to climate change effectively. The goal of this talk is not just to highlight the challenges we face, but to show how education can be a powerful driver of action. The more we connect students and professionals to the landscapes, science, and real-world examples of sustainability, the more equipped they will be to drive meaningful change. Introduction In a world where climate change presents one of the most significant challenges of our time, education must move beyond textbooks and classrooms. It must be immersive, hands-on, and grounded in real-world experiences. GeoCamp Iceland was founded on this very principle, welcoming students, teachers, and researchers to Iceland to engage in place-based learning focused on geology, earth sciences, renewable energy, STEM, environmental issues, and climate change. To truly understand the complexity of our changing planet, learners need to see, feel, and experience the forces shaping it. By stepping onto a glacier, witnessing volcanic activity, or exploring geothermal landscapes, students develop a deeper and more personal connection to the processes that define our environment. At GeoCamp Iceland, the approach is centered on integrating geoscience, sustainability, and outdoor education, making climate education more engaging and effective. This philosophy aligns closely with the Geoschools Project, which highlights the essential role of geoparks in climate education and sustainability. Iceland – The Land of Fire and Ice Iceland is often described as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” a name that reflects the dramatic forces constantly shaping its landscapes. It is a country where volcanic activity and glaciation coexist, creating one of the most geologically dynamic environments on Earth. This unique setting offers invaluable learning opportunities, allowing educators to demonstrate geological change in real time. The country sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are continuously drifting apart. This geological activity, combined with Iceland’s position above a magma plume, fuels over 30 active volcanic systems, frequent earthquakes, and an abundance of geothermal energy. Some eruptions, such as the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, have had global consequences, while others, like the recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, remind us that Iceland’s landscape is in a constant state of transformation. While volcanic activity builds new land, Iceland’s glaciers actively shape the terrain through erosion. These ice masses, covering approximately 11% of the country, are not only geological forces but also vital climate indicators. They preserve thousands of years of atmospheric data within their ice layers, providing crucial records of past climate conditions. However, the reality is stark—since the 19th century, Iceland’s glaciers have lost 16% of their volume. At the current rate, they could disappear within the next 150 years. The loss of these glaciers is not just an environmental issue; it has direct consequences for rising sea levels, shifting ecosystems, and the livelihoods of communities that rely on glacial meltwater. Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark – A Living Laboratory GeoCamp Iceland is based in Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, a region that serves as a natural laboratory where geology, sustainability, and climate resilience intersect. Geoparks are not merely sites of geological significance; they are dynamic spaces where education, conservation, and community engagement come together to deepen our understanding of the planet. Reykjanes Geopark is of particular interest because it sits directly on the boundary between two continents, where the Earth’s crust is actively pulling apart. This makes it an ideal setting for climate and energy education, providing firsthand exposure to volcanic activity, geothermal landscapes, and the forces of plate tectonics. The region also offers a model for sustainable energy, as geothermal power is harnessed directly from the Earth, demonstrating how natural resources can be used responsibly to support a low-carbon future. Geoparks like Reykjanes help us understand Earth’s dynamic processes, but they also reveal the accelerating impact of climate change. While volcanic activity continuously forms new land, glaciers—historical archives of climate patterns—are disappearing. This contrast highlights the dual forces shaping Iceland today: the natural geological changes that have occurred over millennia and the human-driven disruptions that are unfolding at an unprecedented rate. As glaciers melt and landscapes shift, Iceland serves both as a warning and as a model for how societies can adapt, develop sustainable energy solutions, and build resilience in the face of climate challenges. The Climate Crisis: A Challenge for All Climate change is no longer a distant or future problem—it is happening now. Iceland provides a stark case study of both its impact and the potential strategies for mitigation and adaptation. Glacial retreat is occurring at an accelerating pace, contributing to rising sea levels and altering ecosystems. As the weight of ice decreases, the land beneath it rises, which in turn increases seismic and volcanic activity. Climate change is also affecting weather patterns, ocean currents, and biodiversity, causing shifts that extend far beyond Iceland and into the global climate system. Despite these challenges, Iceland demonstrates how societies can take proactive steps toward climate resilience. The country has shifted almost entirely to renewable energy, invested heavily in climate research, and integrated sustainability into its educational systems. By studying Iceland’s transition, other countries can gain insights into how to navigate the energy transition, reduce carbon emissions, and prepare for the changing environment. Renewable Energy in Iceland – A Model for the Future Iceland is a global leader in renewable energy, with nearly 100% of its electricity coming from geothermal and hydropower sources. This transition has allowed the country to drastically reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. Today, 90% of homes in Iceland are heated using geothermal energy, and only 14% of the nation’s total energy use comes from fossil fuels, primarily for transportation and the fishing fleet. To address this remaining dependency, Iceland is now investing in hydrogen fuel technology, electric transport systems, and sustainable aviation fuels, with the goal of becoming entirely energy self-sufficient. While Iceland’s energy model may not be directly replicable in all regions, it serves as a powerful example of how large-scale transitions to sustainability are achievable when governments, industries, and educators work together. The success of this model demonstrates that a commitment to renewable energy and climate-conscious policies can pave the way for a more sustainable future. Geoschools: Climate Education in Action One of the greatest barriers to tackling climate change is the gap between knowledge and action. This is where climate education plays a critical role. The Geoschools project seeks to bridge this gap by moving learning beyond the classroom and into real-world settings. Through field-based education, students gain a direct understanding of climate change by tracking glacial retreat, participating in citizen science projects, and exploring the cultural and ecological impacts of environmental change. A powerful example of this type of education is the story of Okjökull, Iceland’s first glacier to be declared dead due to climate change. In 2019, a plaque was placed at the site, bearing a message that serves as a warning and a call to action: “We know what is happening. We know what must be done. Only you will know if we did it.” This poignant reminder underscores the urgency of climate education and the responsibility we all share in shaping the future. The Path Forward – What Can We Do? The question is no longer whether we can address climate change, but how quickly and effectively we are willing to act. Everyone has a role to play in reducing waste, using resources wisely, and promoting responsible tourism. Climate education must remain at the forefront of this movement, ensuring that young people are equipped with the knowledge and tools to become active participants in sustainability efforts. Through initiatives like Geoschools, UNESCO Geoparks, and place-based education programs, we can empower the next generation to move beyond awareness and toward meaningful action. As the saying goes, “No one can change everything, but everyone can do something.” A Call to Action We stand at a defining moment. Climate change is accelerating, but so is our ability to respond. The choices we make today will shape the landscapes, communities, and opportunities of tomorrow. Education must go beyond simply imparting knowledge—it must inspire, challenge, and equip people with the tools to create change. As educators and professionals, we must ask ourselves: If education holds the key to change, how do we unlock its full potential? At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe the answer lies in how we teach, how we inspire, and how we connect knowledge to action. By using outdoor education, school initiatives, and projects like Geoschools, we can ensure that learning is not just about studying the past—it is about shaping the future. Thank You Arnbjörn Ólafsson, GeoCamp Iceland Geoschools Project – Final Conference, 11th March 2025, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey Download Presentation Slides [PDF]   Staff and board members of GeoCamp Iceland took part in the final meeting of the Erasmus+ Geoschools Project in Afyon, Turkey on 11 - 13 March 2025. The meeting brought together educators and geoscientists from Iceland, Poland, Romania, and Turkey. Over the course of three days, participants reflected on the project’s impact, shared best practices, and explored how outdoor education—especially through geoparks and place-based learning—can help inspire climate action in schools. At GeoCamp Iceland, we believe that education should be immersive, hands-on, and deeply connected to the natural world. This philosophy was at the heart of our involvement in the Geoschools Project, where we worked alongside international partners to create new educational tools, lesson plans, and field-based learning experiences that integrate geoscience with sustainability and climate awareness. Moving Learning Beyond the Classroom The Geoschools Project was developed to address one of the biggest challenges in climate education—the disconnect between knowledge and action. Too often, climate change is taught in isolation, as abstract theories in a classroom. But as we see in Iceland, climate change is a real, observable phenomenon, shaping the landscapes around us. From the retreating glaciers to active volcanic eruptions, Iceland serves as a living laboratory where students can witness environmental changes firsthand. Our work within Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark has shown that when students experience science in action, they not only understand the concepts more deeply but also feel empowered to make a difference. Through the Geoschools Project, we applied this same philosophy on a broader scale, working with partners to create field-based educational experiences that can be replicated in geoparks and natural areas across Europe. A Collaborative Effort for Geoscience Education The final meeting in Afyon was an opportunity to assess the project’s achievements and discuss its long-term impact. The event began with a conference on innovative teaching methods for climate change, hosted at Afyon Kocatepe University. Here, we presented our experiences from Iceland, showcasing how geoparks can serve as powerful educational environments. Throughout the conference, the project partners shared their experiences of using geoparks, geological formations, and local landscapes as outdoor classrooms. In his keynote presentation, Arnbjörn Ólafsson, Managing Director of GeoCamp Iceland, emphasized the need for place-based learningin climate education. He highlighted how outdoor experiences—whether studying volcanic activity, analyzing rock formations, or visiting renewable energy sites—allow students to connect science with real-world challenges. Drawing on Iceland’s sustainable energy model, he demonstrated how education can help young people understand both the problems of climate change and the solutions that exist today. Exploring Kula Geopark: A Model for Outdoor Learning The second day of the meeting took participants to Kula Salihli UNESCO Global Geopark, a stunning natural site known for its volcanic landscapes, basaltic columns, and rich geological diversity. This excursion was a reminder of why geoparks are ideal environments for teaching Earth sciences. During a guided walking tour, participants explored Kula’s famous Fairy Chimneys, learning how these rock formations were shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion. The visit reinforced the project’s central idea, to encourage teachers to collaborate with local natural sites—whether geoparks, nature reserves, or heritage sites—to create meaningful, real-world learning experiences. As seen in Turkey, these collaborations not only enrich science education but also foster a sense of environmental responsibility among students. A Lasting Impact on Climate Education As we wrap up the Geoschools project, there is a shared understanding that while this was the final project meeting, it was just the beginning of a much larger effort to redefine how climate education is taught in schools. At GeoCamp Iceland, we remain committed to empowering educators with the tools they need to bring science to life. The Geoschools Project has reaffirmed what we have always believed--that the best way to teach about our planet is to experience it firsthand. We encourage teachers everywhere to look beyond textbooks and classrooms and to embrace the power of outdoor education. Whether through geoparks, nature reserves, or even local green spaces, the opportunities for immersive, hands-on learning are endless. By integrating geosciences with sustainability and climate action, we can inspire the next generation of environmental leaders, ensuring that students not only understand the science behind climate change but also feel equipped to take action. As we move forward, we look forward to expanding our network of educators, scientists, and schools that share our vision for a more engaging and impactful approach to climate education. Because education should not just inform—it should inspire.  GeoCamp Iceland organised a workshop on 20 February 2025 with representatives from all youth councils in the Reykjanes region as part of the Erasmus+ funded AURORA Project. Around 25 young people gathered for a dynamic workshop encourraging participants to reflect on the role of outdoor learning in their education and personal development. Through engaging group discussions, the youth explored key questions from the AURORA project guidebook, sharing their perspectives on how learning outside the classroom impacts their connection to nature, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. They highlighted memorable outdoor learning experiences, from fjord excursions to wildlife observation, and discussed the advantages of learning in natural settings compared to traditional indoor education. Participants emphasised the benefits of fresh air, physical activity, and hands-on learning in making education more engaging and meaningful. While the enthusiasm for outdoor learning was evident, the discussion also addressed barriers, such as unpredictable weather and limited infrastructure for structured outdoor education. However, the young participants agreed that these challenges could be overcome with proper planning, better facilities, and a shift in mindset, viewing the outdoors as an extension of the classroom rather than an occasional learning space. Technology’s role in outdoor education was another topic of debate. While digital tools can enhance learning - such as using apps to identify plants and wildlife - there was a consensus that excessive screen time can distract from the immersive experience of being in nature. The importance of balancing technology with direct engagement in the environment was a recurring theme. The workshop concluded with a strong message from the youth. They are eager for more opportunities to learn outdoors. They called for outdoor education to be integrated into school schedules more regularly and for decision-makers to prioritise the development of outdoor learning spaces. Their enthusiasm and advocacy reflect a broader shift towards education that is active, experiential, and deeply connected to the natural world. The insights gathered during this session will contribute to the ongoing work of the AURORA project, helping shape strategies for promoting outdoor learning among young people. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore how outdoor education can empower youth and foster a stronger connection to the environment.  As summer approaches, GeoCamp Iceland is gearing up for our most exciting season yet. The year is set to become a milestone for our field-based learning programs with a number of new partner institutions joining us for the first time, including University of Maine, Exeter Academy and Brooklyn College, as well as returning groups eager to revisit Iceland’s dynamic landscapes once again.
A Growing Global Community This summer, students and educators from universities, colleges, and high schools across North America and Europe will embark on immersive learning experiences with us. Their participation underscores the growing interest in Iceland as a premier destination for outdoor education in Earth sciences, sustainability, climate change and STEAM subjects. Why Iceland? Why Now? Iceland’s ever-changing geological features, from active volcanoes to retreating glaciers, provide an unparalleled real-world classroom. With climate change at the forefront of global discussions, students will have the opportunity to witness and study its effects firsthand while learning about Iceland’s pioneering efforts in renewable energy and environmental sustainability. Our hands-on programs encourage critical thinking and problem-solving, fostering a deep understanding of these pressing global issues. This summer’s study tours will feature a diverse range of academic focuses, including:
Each program is tailored to the needs of our partner institutions, ensuring a customized and impactful learning experience. Looking Ahead With more students than ever engaging in field-based learning with GeoCamp Iceland, we are excited to expand our impact and continue fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. If your institution is interested in joining us for a future program, we’d love to hear from you. Follow along on our social media channels and website for updates and highlights from this incredible summer ahead. Here’s to an unforgettable season of exploration, discovery, and learning in Iceland. Nordplus Preparatory Meeting in Iceland: Laying the Foundation for ‘Ripples of Knowledge’
From 15–17 January 2025, representatives from four partner institutions gathered in Iceland for a Nordplus Junior preparatory visit, setting the stage for an exciting new project focusing on outdoor education and STREAM-based learning. Hosted by GeoCamp Iceland, the meeting brought together educators from Alytus Piliakalnis Progymnasium (Lithuania), Palsmane Elementary School (Latvia), and Lasnamäe Vene Gümnaasium (Estonia), all united by the common goal to enhance students’ engagement with the environment through hands-on, field-based learning. Day 1: Exploring Challenges and Opportunities in Outdoor Education The first day introduced the partners to each other and their respective institutions, with discussions centred around their approaches to outdoor education and the integration of STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) subjects. Each school presented its experiences, methodologies, and the challenges they face in implementing outdoor and place-based educationwithin their curricula. A key focus of the discussions was the challenges and opportunities in outdoor education—including the logistics of field-based learning, teacher training, and how to make outdoor lessons accessible year-round in different climates. Iceland’s unique landscape provided an ideal setting for this discussion, as GeoCamp Iceland showcased how the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark serves as an open-air classroom for teaching natural sciences, sustainability, and geoscience. The day also featured a short excursion to key geological sites in Reykjanes, where the group discussed the potential of outdoor education in strengthening students’ scientific literacy, problem-solving skills, and engagement with real-world environmental challenges. Day 2: Drafting the ‘Ripples of Knowledge’ Project Proposal Building on the insights gained during the first day, the second day was dedicated to formulating ideas and structuring a Nordplus Junior application. The partners worked collaboratively to develop the concept for a project that will focus on leveraging outdoor education in close proximity to primary schools. Titled ‘Ripples of Knowledge: STREAM-Based Outdoor Education for a Greener Tomorrow’, the project will aim to:
Partners outlined the project’s key activities, including field visits, teacher training workshops, and student exchanges to share and test newly developed outdoor learning materials. The session concluded with a review of administrative and financial requirements for the proposal. Day 3: Site Visits and Excursions in Iceland The final day provided further inspiration through a series of site visits and excursions in Iceland, reinforcing how outdoor education can be effectively integrated into the curriculum, inspiring ideas for the implementation of the ‘Ripples of Knowledge’ project in each partner country. The preparatory meeting successfully laid the groundwork for the Nordplus Junior application, strengthening the partnership between the institutions and ensuring that outdoor education remains at the heart of innovative learning in the Nordic-Baltic region. With a shared commitment to engaging students with their local environments, the partners are now ready to take the next steps in bringing ‘Ripples of Knowledge’ to life. |
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GeoCamp Iceland is an educational project dedicated to increasing knowledge and understanding in natural sciences with practical and active learning. We develop educational content, student and teacher guides and curricula, organize and receive international study groups focusing on natural sciences, environmental challenges, climate change and STEM education.
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