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Description
Teaching outside the school environment is not only a “more popular” form of teaching for both pupils and many teachers, but also one of the essential components of place-based learning. To expand this teaching method, we decided to contact an Icelandic school that has experience with this type of project teaching. The main goal of the project is reception of new stimuli for work with children, , professional development and acquisition of best practices. A total of eight teachers, four from the Czech Republic and four from Iceland, will take part in this project. The teacher''s profile is very closely connected with the role of the manager, who leads his/her team and implements project teaching outside the classroom. Place-based learning strengthens environmental, social and economic vitality. A milestone in the project is the introduction of project teaching into the school curriculum. We monitor new knowledge through websites and presentations. We identify with this type of teaching and we will share our beliefs with other educators who are open to new methods of educating children.
Summary of project results
Elementary schools in the Czech Republic face a pressing need to innovate their teaching methods. However, a lack of practical experience and low motivation among educators often hinder progress. To address this, the Elementary School Karel Jerabek in Roudnice nad Labem collaborated with the Elementary School in Borgarnes, Iceland, to design and implement two innovative educational activities.
The project included two key activities: the Oparno Mill project in the Czech Republic and the Egil Saga project in Iceland. These activities involved pupils from the eighth and ninth grades, guided by five Czech and four Icelandic teachers.
The research-based approach of the lessons provided students with a deeper understanding of historical events and local community facts. The curriculum integrated multiple subjects, including geography, natural history, physics, work education, and English, offering a multidisciplinary and immersive learning experience.
The primary outcome of the project was the incorporation of the place-based learning method into the school curriculum. This approach inspired educators and enriched their teaching strategies, promoting an active and engaging learning environment.
The collaboration also fostered internationalization and strengthened ties between the two schools, culminating in a formal cooperation agreement for 2022–2024. This partnership ensures continued exchange of knowledge and best practices, benefiting students and teachers alike.
Summary of bilateral results
The most significant achievement of the project was the progress made in students'' approach to learning. A noticeable difference was observed in how pupils engaged with project work before and after the initiative. The donor partner demonstrated how to establish and present ourselves as potential partners, providing valuable insights that we continue to build upon. The collaboration enhanced our knowledge and understanding and strengthened our relationship. We have agreed to continue the bilateral partnership and have organized a mobility project under the Erasmus+ program. In 2023, fifteen Czech pupils and three Czech teachers will visit Iceland, using the eTwinning platform to support and enrich this ongoing cooperation.