National Conference on Science Education in Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark

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.
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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.
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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.