Improving environmental awareness of students

Project facts

Project promoter:
Grammar school Jána Baltazára Magina
Project Number:
SK06-0024
Target groups
Schools and other institutions providing education and/or training at all levels,
Manager, leaders, teachers, trainers, administrators and technical staff from eligible institutions
Status:
Completed
Initial project cost:
€71,132
Final project cost:
€59,991
From EEA Grants:
€ 45,893
The project is carried out in:
Trnavský kraj

Description

One of the main objectives is to present the use of alternative and sustainable sources of energy, especially geothermal energy so that students can learn more about possibilities of use of such energies. There is a long tradition of using this form of energy in many fields in Iceland, where in reality energy come from renewable resources. Current use of geothermal energy is considered for only a small proportion of what it can actually offer. Geothermal resources cover basic need of energy for over a half of Iceland inhabitants. Considering the fact that Slovakia has a potential to use geothermal energy, which is at the moment used mainly by spas, it would be beneficial to learn more about possibilities it offers. Students could on the base of experience be able to apply similar systems in Slovakia whether on large or small scale. Cultural and social activities will be focusing on improvement of environmental education and international mobility of students will take place, in order to gain new skills and knowledge in area of green energy, alternative resources, especially geothermal energy. Furthermore, it will verify language skills of students as well as prepare grounds for further development of cooperation. Mutual activities such as excursions, sport days, workshop will be organised, concerning use of energy, problems of environment and their possible solution in Slovakia and Iceland. Donor project partner, Fjölbrautaskóli Vesturlands, is an equal partner actively involved in planning and organisation of all project activities. Thanks to the partnership teachers will have chance to use newly learned knowledge in educational process and so to increase quality of education in participating schools.

Summary of project results

Project aimed to create cooperation between Icelandic Upper-secondary school Fjölbrautaskóli Vesturlands, Akranes and Grammar school of J. B Magin in Vrbové through mutual realization of cultural and social activities focusing on improvement of environmental education and international mobility of students in order to gain new skills and knowledge in area of green energy, alternative resources, especially geothermal energy.20 students from Slovakia and 20 students from Iceland visited partner country, various excursions and environmental workshops. The implementation of the project included verification of language skills, presentation of culture, traditions and customs of both countries in the form of 4 knowledge contests and through a joint magazine issued by both schools. The main benefit was the knowledge of the modern world and the way of controlling the future development in order to ensure sustainable development for the next generation.

Summary of bilateral results

The project aim was to increase bilateral cooperation between upper-secondary vocational schools in Vrbové and Akranes. Realised activities have influenced all the students and employees at both partner institutions. Except the other benefits, participants have learned about the topics of common interest – environment.As a part of joint environmental project, 40 small trees were planted in Iceland and a small forest was established, and an herbal garden was planted in Slovakia. To bring together a group of students from two rather different environment has proved to be most fruitful for the educational environment and for the students this has brought about an experience that is unique for their whole study period. By meeting students from far away, and sharing experience and point of view, has taught them more then hours and hours in the classroom.The project raised awareness for the environmental protection and students as well as teachers have practiced communication in English.