From October 13 to 20, 2024, Citizens of Europe, in collaboration with our local partner EMOTiC and eight other organizations, implemented the Erasmus+ training course “Revitalizing Ecosystems Through Experiential Learning” in Vienna, Austria. This international initiative brought together 33 youth workers from ten European countries—Austria, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, Croatia, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, and Slovenia.
The training focused on leveraging outdoor education to address pressing social and environmental challenges, including mental health, inclusion, and sustainability. Through a combination of theoretical input and hands-on activities, participants explored innovative methods to engage young people in environmental learning and empower them through nature-based experiences.
From Theory to Practice: Key Objectives
The training sought to redefine outdoor education by emphasizing:
- Safety, inclusivity, and well-being – ensuring that outdoor learning is accessible to all, regardless of ability or background.
- Utilization of public spaces – transforming parks, community gardens, and urban green areas into learning environments.
- Equipping youth workers – providing practical tools to address issues such as climate change, mental health, and youth empowerment.
- Experiential learning – moving beyond theoretical discussions to immersive, hands-on engagement with nature.
Challenges and Principles of Outdoor Education
A deep dive into the challenges of youth work revealed both obstacles and opportunities in engaging young people through outdoor education. Participants examined their roles as facilitators of change and took part in practical exercises to understand key principles: learning by doing, fostering connections with nature, and designing inclusive programs. Reflective activities further helped consolidate these insights.
Mindfulness, Creativity, and Connection with Nature
One morning, a meditative walk encouraged participants to reflect on their relationship with nature, climate anxiety, and personal empowerment. A land art and upcycling activity challenged them to create meaningful artworks from found objects, using environmental art as a storytelling medium.
An excursion to Kahlenberg, offering breathtaking views over Vienna, provided a digital-free experience where participants engaged in trust-building and mindfulness exercises. The trip culminated in a waste collection challenge, reinforcing sustainability through direct action.
A Lasting Impact
Throughout the week, participants not only gained valuable theoretical knowledge but also engaged in hands-on outdoor education methods that they can apply in their communities. By fostering collaboration across borders and disciplines, the training highlighted the importance of experiential learning in addressing today’s environmental and social challenges.
The project was funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, underscoring the significance of innovative and inclusive educational approaches.
This training was more than just an opportunity to learn—it was a chance to connect, to experience, and to rethink how we engage with the natural world.
#ErasmusPlus #OutdoorEducation #SustainabilityInAction #ExperientialLearning #YouthEmpowerment #CitizensOfEurope
