From 22-28 September 2024, GeoCamp Iceland hosted the first Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity (LTTA) for the AURORA Erasmus+ project. Participants from across Europe gathered in Iceland’s stunning Reykjanes Peninsula to engage in outdoor learning workshops, cultural exchanges, and immersive experiences with the natural environment.

Highlights of the Week

• The programme kicked off with presentations from partner organisations, setting the stage for fruitful discussions on outdoor education. GeoCamp Iceland’s team led a fascinating outdoor learning workshop in the unique geological landscape of Reykjanes.
• The week featured a diverse range of cultural evenings, with participants from Ireland, Finland, and Türkiye sharing their traditions through food, music, and storytelling.
• A full-day tour of the Golden Circle offered participants a first-hand experience of Iceland’s remarkable geothermal and geological features, combined with outdoor learning activities along the way.
• The event concluded with a reflection session and certification ceremony, where participants received recognition for their contributions to the AURORA project.

The AURORA project, designed to integrate outdoor learning and technology through augmented and virtual reality, continues to build momentum with its focus on innovative teaching. The LTTA1 in Iceland was a resounding success, setting the foundation for future activities as the project progresses.
Stay tuned for more updates from the AURORA project as we continue to enhance outdoor education for young people across Europe!

GeoCamp Iceland participated in the first Transnational Partner Meeting (TPM) of the Erasmus+ AURORA project, hosted in Ireland from 30 April to 1 May 2024. This two-day meeting marked an exciting beginning for the project, bringing together partners from across Europe to collaborate on key deliverables that will drive the initiative forward.

The meeting centered on the development of the AURORA project’s two primary outputs:

1. AURORA Guidebook: The guidebook will consist of nine chapters, with each partner leading the development of a specific chapter. Content creation will start in May 2024, and the final English version is expected to be completed by August. Each chapter will be based on research and workshops conducted with young people, ensuring their voices shape the educational materials. The guidebook will also feature innovative elements like QR codes to make it more engaging.
   ​
   
2. AURORA Platform: Set to begin development in October 2024, the platform will serve as a central hub for sharing resources and supporting outdoor learning through augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). The TPM discussed the equipment needed to film AR/VR footage, with several partners offering to contribute their own resources.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the next steps, including evaluation and reporting procedures, dissemination strategies, and preparation for the upcoming events. GeoCamp Iceland is excited to continue working on this inspiring project, which aims to bring outdoor learning and technology together to create impactful educational experiences for young people.

GeoCamp Iceland will host the first Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity (LTTA) from 22-28 September 2024. The LTTA will include outdoor learning workshops, field trips to Iceland’s stunning natural landmarks, and training sessions on how to use AR/VR technology to enhance educational experiences. Participants will also have the opportunity to witness Iceland’s northern lights, weather permitting, and engage in cultural activities.