City as a Living Classroom: Experiential Learning for Engaged Minds
Course overview
This immersive 5-day course is designed to empower educators with the knowledge and practical strategies to utilize the city as a dynamic and multifaceted resource for teaching and learning. Participants will explore the city as a living organism, where cultures, traditions, languages, and values coexist and interact, shaping the lives of its citizens.
The course will delve into the historical, cultural, and socio-political perspectives of the city, examining its structures and how they influence urban life. Participants will learn how to help students develop critical thinking, creativity, and reflective skills, fostering active citizenship and a sense of belonging within the city.
Emphasis will be placed on experiential learning and its contribution to lifelong learning. Participants will develop ways of exploring the city, engaging students in hands-on activities, and utilizing various tools for data collection and analysis. The course will cover a range of activities that can be implemented in neighborhoods, city centers, museums, monuments, and green areas, providing a comprehensive approach to integrating the city into the curriculum.
The course will also introduce participants to the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools for collecting data, sharing information, enhancing communication, developing map skills, and creating engaging activities. Participants will have the opportunity to practice using apps and digital tools in outdoor activities, further enriching the learning experience.
To enhance the learning experience and provide a cultural context, the course will incorporate guided visits to local museums, heritage sites, and cultural landmarks within Čakovec and Međimurje County. These visits will allow participants to explore the rich history and traditions of the region, drawing inspiration for integrating local elements into their teaching practices.
Tentative schedule:
Day 1: The city as a living classroom
Day 2: Exploring the city’s neighborhoods and cultural heritage
Day 3: Experiential learning and cultural exploration
Day 4: Exploring cultural diversity through mobile photography
Day 5: Implementing city-based learning and course wrap-up
The classes typically run from 9 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon, with the afternoon and evening reserved for self-reflection and individual study. However, the course schedule may be adjusted to accommodate the preferences of the participants and the availability of instructors or external learning locations. Participants will receive the finalized schedule well in advance, allowing ample time for preparation and planning.
Learning outcomes:
The participants will be able to: