What is IL4SH?
Exploring Intergenerational Learning for Sustainable Households
The IL4SH project (Intergenerational Learning for Sustainable Households) aims to introduce concepts, practices, and methods of Intergenerational Learning, specifically within the field of climate and sustainability education in secondary schools through Citizen Science projects.
The primary goal is to promote environmentally sustainable and greener practices in European households by engaging both younger and older generations in the learning and action process.
The IL4SH Project has 3 key objectives:
– To promote intergenerational collaboration and Citizen Science activities
– To create a collaborative learning environment
– To provide a holistic and reciprocal educational experience
The Importance of Intergenerational Learning
The rapid pace of anthropogenic climate change, coupled with the ageing population in Europe and worldwide, requires a comprehensive response involving most of the population. This necessitates a drastic lifestyle change, engaging both younger and older generations in sustainable actions. Households are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions due to energy consumption and other harmful practices. More actions are needed despite existing efforts to minimise these emissions.
Intergenerational Learning is crucial for promoting sustainable behaviours from a young age.
Project Methodology
IL4SH aims to assist secondary schools in integrating a methodology for environmental and sustainability education, utilising Intergenerational Learning activities and Citizen Science. Citizen Science is defined as the collection and analysis of data relating to the natural world by members of the general public, typically as part of a collaborative project with professional scientists. Our goal is for secondary school teachers to become inspired and use this method in their classrooms to provide a more holistic, inclusive, and effective approach to teaching.
Expected Outcomes
The main outcomes of the IL4SH project include:
– An eBook on intergenerational learning for sustainability in secondary schools.
– A Virtual Toolkit, including a DIY manual with four workshops on intergenerational teaching for sustainability.
– Training activities, mobility programs, and short-term/long-term family Citizen Science interventions in households.
Conclusion
The IL4SH project is committed to creating more sustainable households through education and intergenerational collaboration. By equipping secondary school teachers with the necessary tools and methodologies, IL4SH aims to inspire significant changes in how we teach and learn about the environment and sustainability. Join us on this journey towards a greener and more sustainable future!