Shrek kids – swamp inhabitants
Kalēti, Latvia
3rd FUNDING CALL
The “Shrek Kids – Swamp Inhabitants” project is an inspiring initiative that brings students face-to-face with the wonders of their local ecosystem, specifically the Dunikas Marsh. This year-long adventure combines scientific inquiry, hands-on environmental action, and creative expression to foster a deep understanding of wetland environments. It’s a project that showcases the power of experiential learning and community engagement, and we’re excited to share its journey.
Objectives: Nurturing Swamp Stewards
The project’s objectives are designed to cultivate environmental awareness and responsibility:
- Introduce Swamp Ecosystems: To familiarize students with the Dunikas Marsh and its ecological significance.
- Promote Environmental Awareness: To educate students about their impact on nature and the importance of sustainability.
- Utilize Experiential Learning: To employ hands-on workshops and field studies to create a deeper understanding of natural environments.
- Foster a Sense of Agency: To empower students to become active protectors of local freshwater resources.
The school community is exploring Latvia’s unique swamp ecosystems. Younger students created booklets and gave presentations about swamp plants and animals, while older students engaged in field trips to Dunika and Palšu purvs. These excursions, guided by expert Māris Olte, helped students understand the ecological importance and vulnerability of swamps, contrasting pristine natural environments with areas impacted by industrial use. Further activities are planned, including clean-up actions and educational visits to Ventspils.
Activities and Collaborations:
The project employs a diverse range of activities and fosters strong collaborations:
- Theoretical Preparation: Classroom learning using modern teaching materials and integrating project themes into various subjects.
- Field Workshops: Hands-on exploration and learning in Dunikas Marsh and a nearby beech grove.
- Summer Camp: An immersive environmental experience organized by school staff.
- Community Events: “Briedens” reunion, guest lectures, and friendship meetings.
- Educational Trips: Visits to nature houses, museums, and national parks.
- Environmental Cleanup: Students will remove and sort trash from the marsh and beech grove.
- Biodiversity Studies: Students will document plant, animal, bird, and insect species.
- Creative Expression: Students will prepare reports, presentations, and a concert program about swamp life.
- Community Outreach: Students will share their experiences and environmental messages with other schools.
- Teacher Resource Development: Creation of teaching materials, activity plans, and camp organization plans.
The project includes collaboration with:
- Priekule Secondary School
- Liepaja Nature House
- Riga Natural Museum
- National Parks in Latvia
Outputs and Impact: Growing Environmental Champions
The project generates valuable outputs and creates a lasting impact:
Long term sustainability: The project aims to give students an understanding of sustainability that they will use in their future.
Increased Student Awareness: Students gain a deeper understanding of swamp ecosystems and environmental issues.
Practical Environmental Action: Students actively participate in cleanup and biodiversity documentation.
Creative Expression: Students develop artistic and musical performances to convey environmental messages.
Educational Resources: Teachers create and share teaching materials and activity plans.
Community Engagement: Students share their experiences with other schools and the wider community.
Media Coverage: Project descriptions and videos are published on school websites and local news pages.
Teacher Development: Experience sharing at international teacher conferences.
Funded by the European Union