Historické eko-pomôcky v inkluzívnom vzdelávaní

We've chosen to present this project proposal to address the imperative of fostering inclusivity within our partner primary schools. This collaboration stems from three institutions committed to the pursuit of European values, particularly in environmental education and inclusive practices. Efficient exchange of best practices is anticipated, yielding strengthened areas aligning with both school priorities and the ERASMUS program. While our Slovakian coordinator boasts strength in environmental education, ongoing exploration of new approaches is essential to promoting environmental sustainability education. Our Czech partner demonstrates excellence in implementing inclusive strategies, supported by a proficient team, and has a track record of successful international ecological projects. The partnership with our Hungarian counterpart was established based on the recommendation of a school from central Slovakia, with whom fruitful collaboration has been previously achieved. Our aim is to bolster inclusivity through creative expression, historical exploration, and empathetic engagement. Environmental games are envisioned as a key tool in our inclusive initiative.

Through collaborative efforts on an international scale, our objective was to infuse our schools with a distinctly European ethos – one characterized by inclusivity and tolerance. Central to our mission was the support of students in attaining emotional equilibrium while instilling a dedication to environmental stewardship. We anticipated tangible outcomes in promoting environmentally conscious lifestyles among students and their families. Our strategy involved leveraging creative endeavors to craft tools for eco-games, with a focus on activities aimed at nature preservation, sustainability, and the cultivation of diverse and inclusive environments. Drawing inspiration from historical precedents, our project aimed to introduce innovative educational approaches rooted in ecological wisdom of the past. Furthermore, through the implementation of project activities, we aimed to afford students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultures, traditions, and languages of other European nations, thereby enhancing their global perspective.

During the preparatory phase, students wrote letters about their countries. The first activity, "Leap into History," took place in Tatranská Lomnica, Slovakia, from December 12th to 16th, 2022, involving 45 children. They conducted historical research, made eco-friendly snowshoes, had discussions with experts, received snowshoe training, participated in physiotherapy, and interacted with a high-altitude rescuer. Traditional souvenir crafting and visits to notable places in the High Tatras were also part of the agenda. The second initiative, "Expanding Horizons," occurred in Jedovnice, Czech Republic, from May 22nd to 26th, 2023, with 53 children. They crafted educational aids, created recycle design t-shirts, fashioned clay souvenirs, and wove baskets for fishing. Exploration of notable sites in Moravia was included. Lastly, the third activity took place in Hungary from September 25th to 29th, 2023, with 51 children. The agenda included constructing shelters, painting ornaments, visiting a workshop for crafting souvenirs, and exploring points of interest.

The outcomes of our project include: a better appreciation for the significance of walking in human life, the cultivation of empathy towards individuals with disabilities and diverse backgrounds, thus fostering an inclusive environment among students. Furthermore, practical educational aids were developed, catering not only to students with special needs but for every student. Talking about environmental sustainability, our efforts focused on natural materials and promoting the adoption of ecological alternatives among students and educators. Through survey, we found out that participation in the Erasmus+ project had a positive impact on students awareness of environmental issues. Participants reported a greater inclination towards environmentally responsible decision-making upon returning from their Erasmus+ experiences abroad. These findings suggest that our project has played a huge role in shaping environmental consciousness, not only among students but also within their families. Additionally, the project yielded an e-book intended to inspire others to engage in compelling activities with young people while shedding light on historical sources and their contemporary relevance.