Educational Adventures: Global Playground Explores Sustainability at Jyväskylä Seminar

From the 1st to the 3rd of October 2023, Global Playground Stockholm, All Aboard project coordinator, attended a pivotal seminar on sustainability education and planetary well-being in Jyväskylä, Finland.

Organized by the Finnish National Agency and the Finnish Institute for Educational Research at the University of Jyväskylä, in collaboration with the Swedish National Agency, this three-day event brought together teachers and researchers from diverse backgrounds and countries, all sharing a common interest in sustainable education.

The primary goal of the seminar was to empower educators with the competences and skills necessary to guide students in building a sustainable world. An integral part of the program was dedicated to Erasmus+, where participants delved into the European Sustainability Competence Framework (GreenComp). This framework defines the key competences students need to actively contribute to sustainability, and attendees learned how to adapt and implement GreenComp in their teaching contexts through concrete examples and methods.

The seminar encompassed various aspects of sustainability education, including environmental boundaries, human-nature connection, active participation, and outdoor learning. Insights were shared on connecting students with nature to enhance well-being, learning, and sustainability awareness. Additionally, strategies for preparing students for emergencies, such as natural disasters, conflicts, and pandemics, were explored, emphasizing sustainable coping and response mechanisms.

During the conference, Global Playground had the honour of presenting the Erasmus+ project “All aboard: Creating a community of green Changemakers during childhood.” This thematic seminar provided a platform to share insights and visions with over 60 participants from different EU countries, all passionate about sustainable education. Positive feedback and engaging discussions ensued, creating an enriching environment for the exchange of ideas and experiences.

The seminar went beyond traditional learning, incorporating interactive elements such as presentations, panel discussions, workshops, school visits, and informal encounters. Participants seized the opportunity to network with potential partners for future projects, facilitated by the Erasmus+ program.

Beyond the educational aspects, the seminar provided a rich cultural and social experience. Participants explored the Finnish nature and culture through visits to the Jyväskylä Art Museum, the Alvar Aalto Museum, and Savutuvan Apaja, a traditional Finnish venue by Lake Päijänne. Cultural immersion included enjoying the Finnish sauna and outdoor learning experiences in the forest.

The event was not only informative but also enjoyable, offering new knowledge, ideas, methods, and motivation to enhance sustainability education. Global Playground forged new connections, joining a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to sustainability and planetary well-being.

Special thanks go to the organizers and hosts for providing this exceptional opportunity!!

Global Playground looks forward to maintaining connections and potential collaborations with fellow participants in the future. To the wider community, we encourage you to consider participating in the next seminar on sustainability education—a fantastic avenue for learning, networking, and professional development.

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For more information, please contact Global Playground Sweden via email: info@globalplaygroundstockholm.com.