Open-Air Sustainability: Nurturing Green Minds through Interactive and Hands-On Learning
Bring kids back to nature with Open Classroom. Explore the great outdoors, discover the wonders of science, and learn about the environment through interactive lessons and hands-on activities. This education initiative, empowering students for a sustainable future.
Local
Montenegro
South of Montenegro, municipality of Budva, place Petrovac
Mainly rural
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
No
No
Yes
As a representative of an organization, in partnership with other organisations
Name of the organisation(s): Primary school "Mirko Srzentić" Type of organisation: Other public institution First name of representative: Ivana Last name of representative: Kurtovic Gender: Female Nationality: Montenegro Function: Principal Address (country of permanent residence for individuals or address of the organisation)<br/>Street and number: Stupovi bb Town: Petrovac Postal code: 85300 Country: Montenegro Direct Tel:+382 63 224 508 E-mail:skola@os-msrzentic.edu.me
Name of the organisation(s): Primary school for music education Budva Type of organisation: Other public institution First name of representative: Milica Last name of representative: Radoman Gender: Female Nationality: Montenegro Function: Principal Address (country of permanent residence for individuals or address of the organisation)<br/>Street and number: Dositejeva bb Town: Budva Postal code: 85310 Country: Montenegro Direct Tel:+382 69 372 204 E-mail:skola@somo-bd.edu.me
Unfortunately spaces around the school aren't used as open-air classrooms, because during sunny days, it is too warm to spend longer time outside.
However, there is a very beautiful terrace which is protected from wind on the eastern side of the school. Due to unplanned building of the school interiors that terrace is inapproachable. From school there is a door that cannot be opened, because they are covered by heating pipes.
By changing the joinery the terrace would be accessible to students and could be used an open-air classroom.
That classroom would be used 7 out of 9 months which students spend at school, and during summer months it would serve as their place to get together, organising music school concerts and thematic film nights.
It is necessary to change joinery, buy the appropriate furniture, cultivate the natural surroundings as a small botanical garden and provide video surveillance.
Also is important to note that our school has been awarded the title of Eco School since 2019 and that with this action we justify the mission of our school
accessibility
sustainability
nature
learning
community
The open-air classroom will be used not only as the classroom during the school year, but also as place for exhibition, music and other cultural events for both, locals and visitors since Petrovac is known as popular tourist place.
The key objectives of the open-air classroom initiative in terms of sustainability can include:
Promoting environmental awareness and responsibility among students and teachers: This can be achieved through incorporating sustainability education into the curriculum and providing opportunities for hands-on, real-world learning experiences.
Encouraging the use of environmentally friendly practices in the school: This can include reducing waste, conserving energy and water, and using sustainable materials in the classroom.
Building partnerships with local organizations and businesses to enhance the impact of the initiative: This can involve working with community groups and businesses to implement sustainability projects in the school and wider community.
In terms of being exemplary in the context of an open classroom, the initiative can be seen as a model for how schools can create sustainable, equitable, and student-centered learning environments. By incorporating environmental sustainability into the curriculum and promoting hands-on, real-world learning experiences, the initiative can help students develop the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become responsible and engaged citizens. Additionally, by building partnerships with local organizations and businesses, the initiative can demonstrate the importance of collaboration and community engagement in creating a more sustainable future.
Unused area will be cultivated, using recycled materials. By building it in traditional way and planting only native plants such as olives, oranges, herbs atc. we will respect local heritage.
The key objectives of the open classroom initiative in terms of aesthetics and quality of experience for people can include:
Creating visually appealing and comfortable learning environments: This can be achieved through thoughtful design that takes into account factors such as lighting, color, and furnishings.
Enhancing the emotional and cultural experiences of students and teachers: This can involve incorporating elements of art, music, and cultural diversity into the curriculum and school environment.
Promoting positive emotions and well-being among students and teachers: This can involve creating spaces and opportunities for relaxation, reflection, and connection with nature.
To meet these objectives, the open classroom initiative can incorporate a range of strategies, including:
Incorporating design principles that promote a positive and engaging learning environment: This can involve using natural materials, incorporating elements of nature into the design, and creating flexible and adaptable spaces that can be easily reconfigured for different activities and learning needs.
Integrating art, music, and cultural diversity into the curriculum: This can involve incorporating lessons and activities that help students explore and appreciate different cultural perspectives and traditions.
Encouraging connection with nature and outdoor activities: This can involve creating outdoor learning spaces, encouraging outdoor play and recreation, and promoting opportunities for exposure to nature and the environment.
In terms of being exemplary in this context, the open classroom initiative can be seen as a model for how schools can create learning environments that enhance the well-being and cultural experiences of students and teachers. By incorporating design principles
The key objectives of the open classroom initiative in terms of inclusion are: accessibility and affordability for all students, inclusive governance systems, design for all principles, and adopting new societal models. To meet these objectives, the initiative can provide accessible and affordable learning environments, encourage inclusive governance practices, implement universal design principles, and provide opportunities for students to learn about equity and social justice. The initiative can be seen as exemplary by creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students and fostering responsible and engaged citizenship through the incorporation of equity and social justice principles.
Sustainable, in harmony with nature, the environment, and our planet.
Inclusive, encouraging a dialogue across cultures, disciplines, genders and ages
The New European Bauhaus brings citizens, experts, businesses, and institutions together to reimagine sustainable living in Europe and beyond. In addition to creating a platform for experimentation and connection, the initiative supports positive change also by providing access to EU funding for beautiful, sustainable, and inclusive projects.
The New European Bauhaus initiative connects the European Green Deal to our daily lives and living spaces. It calls on all Europeans to imagine and build together a sustainable and inclusive future that is beautiful for our eyes, minds, and souls.
Our stakeholders are Elementary school, Music school Budva, Municipality of Budva, Tourist organization Budva and Ministry of education. Here are few ways the stakeholder will be engaged in the design and implementation of the initiative:
Inviting experts and community members to participate in the design process and provide feedback on the indicators.
Encouraging the sharing of best practices and lessons learned among schools and tourist organization.
Fostering partnerships between schools, tourist organization, and local communities to enhance the impact of the open classroom initiative.
Evaluating the effectiveness of the indicators and making necessary adjustments based on feedback from students, teachers, and other stakeholders.
The design and implementation of the open classroom initiative in elementary schools may involve a range of disciplines and knowledge fields, including:
Education: To ensure the alignment of the initiative with educational standards and goals, representatives from the field of education may be involved in the design and implementation process. They can provide expertise on pedagogy, curriculum development, and assessment.
Environmental Science: To address the environmental sustainability goals of the open classroom, representatives from environmental science may be involved. They can provide expertise on the ecological, social, and economic impacts of human activities on the environment.
Technology: To support the use of technology in the open classroom, representatives from the field of technology may be involved. They can provide expertise on the use of digital tools and resources to enhance teaching and learning.
Community Engagement: To involve the local community in the initiative, representatives from community engagement may be involved. They can provide expertise on community outreach and engagement, and help facilitate partnerships between schools, local organizations, and businesses.
The representatives from these different fields may interact with each other through regular meetings, workshops, and team-building activities. This process allows for the sharing of expertise and perspectives and can lead to a more holistic and inclusive approach to the design and implementation of the open classroom.
In Montenegro, education is limited to formal settings and institutions. However, research has shown that informal education, such as independent work and peer collaboration, leads to a deeper understanding and retention of information. The open classroom initiative aims to address this issue by providing students with opportunities for informal learning through experiences in nature. This approach is innovative as it provides students with hands-on experiences that allow them to engage in creative and independent learning, as well as interact with their peers in a natural environment. Additionally, the initiative aims to make the learning experience inclusive and sustainable by creating an environment that is welcoming and accommodating to all students. The goal is to offer students an education that goes beyond the traditional classroom setting and provides them with practical and meaningful experiences that they can carry with them throughout their lives.
The elements of the open classroom initiative that could be replicated or transferred to other contexts include the methodology for designing and implementing informal education programs, the technology and tools used for student learning, the processes for creating inclusive and sustainable learning environments, and the learnings and best practices from the initiative. For example, the work program, brochure, and presentation created during the initiative could be used as a model for other schools or educational institutions looking to incorporate informal education into their curricula. These materials could be adapted to fit the needs of different beneficiaries and contexts and could be shared with educational institutions, governments, and non-profit organizations. Additionally, the innovative approach of returning to nature and organizing work in natural conditions could be applied in other educational settings, providing students with opportunities for hands-on, experiential learning that promotes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
The methodology of the open classroom initiative is centered around skills-based learning, with an emphasis on practical application of knowledge. This approach is based on the principles of experiential learning, where students are actively engaged in hands-on activities that allow them to apply what they have learned in real-world situations. The methodology also incorporates cooperative learning, where students work together in groups to solve problems, complete projects, and share their knowledge and experiences with one another. The ultimate goal of this approach is to educate students on the importance of returning to nature and preserving the natural environment, by providing them with opportunities for direct engagement and interaction with the natural world. Through this methodology, students are able to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment and are empowered to become stewards of the planet and advocates for sustainable practices.
The open classroom initiative addresses global challenges in education by providing a unique and innovative approach that breaks away from traditional, formal methods of teaching. The initiative focuses on providing local solutions by incorporating hands-on, experiential learning that allows students to apply what they have learned in real-world situations. By doing so, the initiative seeks to provide students with a more well-rounded education that emphasizes practical skills and knowledge, as well as a deeper appreciation for the environment and sustainable practices. Through this approach, the initiative aims to address global challenges such as the need for education systems to adapt to the rapidly changing world, the importance of fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, and the need to promote sustainability and protect the environment for future generations. By providing a different and innovative approach to education, the open classroom initiative offers a model for other educational institutions around the world to follow, promoting positive change and addressing these important global challenges.
The open classroom approach in elementary schools aims to enhance student learning through hands-on, student-led activities. This method prioritizes collaboration, critical thinking and creativity. The following outlines steps for the initiative's implementation in the year after it's established:
Teacher Training: Teachers will receive training to understand the principles of open classrooms and how to foster student-led learning.
Classroom Redesign: Classrooms will be reconfigured to support open classroom learning and may include rearranged furniture, flexible seating and technology.
Technology Integration: Technology such as interactive whiteboards, laptops and tablets will be utilized to support student learning and collaboration.
Project-based Learning: Students will work on real-world projects to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills while also encouraging creativity and innovation.
Student Assessment: The impact of the open classroom approach will be evaluated through various assessment tools, such as standardized tests, performance assessments and student portfolios.
The open classroom approach is expected to result in improved student engagement, heightened creativity and critical thinking, stronger collaboration and communication among students, and a personalized learning experience. These benefits will better prepare students for their future academic and professional paths.
The open classroom initiative in elementary schools can contribute to developing new competences related to sustainability by providing hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that help students understand the importance of environmental stewardship and the role they can play in promoting sustainability. By engaging in activities such as gardening, composting, and recycling, students can develop practical skills related to sustainability while also gaining a deeper understanding of the deep and transformative changes needed in education and training to support the green transition. Additionally, the open classroom approach encourages collaboration and problem-solving, helping students develop critical thinking and teamwork skills that are essential for tackling complex sustainability challenges. Overall, the open classroom initiative aligns with the goals of the European competence framework on sustainability by promoting a shared understanding of the need for education and training that supports the transition to a more sustainable future.
