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Youth scouts on duty

2022-3-PT02-KA152-YOU-0000984472022Mobility of young peoplefinalized
Countries: PT|ES|IT|HU|RO|TR|DE|EL|BG · Grant: €46,025
Key competences developmentPhysical and mental health, well-beingGreen skills

Objectives

Our main objective was to address the increasing dependency of young people on technology and social media, which has become one of the biggest problems of our time. We observed that many individuals needed to be made aware of the organizations combating addiction, and those who were aware often needed more trust in their methods. This addiction was causing young people to neglect the world's problems, leading to asocial behavior. Additionally, the decrease in green areas and the rise of urbanization aggravated this issue. Thus, we aimed to prevent the deterioration of young people's character and physical development by promoting scouting, a worldwide enjoyable activity that maintains their connection with nature. Based on our research, we identified Germany as the country where technology was most prevalent in Europe. Simultaneously, we noticed that increased levels of dissociation accompanied this technological advancement. Furthermore, we found that Germany ranked 11th in the Global Social Mobility Index among countries worldwide, falling behind many others. Although countries emphasizing nature dominated the top 10, Germany, as a highly technologically connected nation, was an exception. We wanted to understand why Germany held this unique position, being highly related to technology and ranking among the top 3 in European social society. Our research also revealed that Germany boasted the most significant number of European scouts, with 110,165 registered members since 2015. This information prompted us to investigate the correlation between technology addiction and scouting and people's awareness and perception of scouting and nature as potential solutions to technology addiction. To gather insights, we conducted a survey open to all of Europe, with 70% of respondents falling within the 20-30 age group and 30% in the 16-20 age group. Of the participants, 46% confirmed they were addicted to technology, while 29% remained uncertain. However, a significant majority (68%) acknowledged that addiction was solvable, and 80% agreed that nature was one of the potential solutions. Surprisingly, although 74% claimed familiarity with scouting, only 44% believed that technology addiction could be addressed through scouting, and 45% expressed uncertainty. These responses led us to our primary motivation for initiating the project—to address the misconceptions surrounding scouting and demonstrate how it can prevent technology addiction. Building upon the research findings, our overall objective for this project was to support young people's character and physical development by strengthening their connection with nature through scouting. In addition, we aimed to reduce their dependence on technology and raise awareness about the negative impacts of technology addiction on young individuals. Our specific objectives included the following: Educating Participants: We sought to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of scouting, its core principles, and how it contributes to personal character and physical development. Nature Connection: Through scouting activities, we aimed to help participants establish a deep connection with nature, emphasizing its importance in their lives and well-being. Balanced Perception of Technology: Our project aimed to highlight both the negative and positive aspects of technology, encouraging participants to utilize it responsibly and mindfully. Raising Awareness: By engaging in scouting and experiencing its benefits firsthand, we intended to raise awareness among participants about the detrimental effects of technology addiction on young people. Throughout the implementation of our project, we successfully achieved our goals and witnessed positive outcomes. Participants comprehensively understood scouting and its positive impact on character and physical development. By engaging in various scouting activities, they established a stronger connection with nature, appreciating its value in their lives. Furthermore, we managed to shift participants' perception of technology, helping them recognize the importance of responsible and balanced usage.

Project partners (9)