To help Europe become climate-neutral by 2050, we set out to develop and test an engaging non-formal learning environment that engages teachers, students, and the community in addressing climate change. Our main goal was to comprehend how the Mediterranean marine ecology is being affected by climate change, with a particular emphasis on how lionfish species are spreading. The intention was to raise students' empathy and comprehension of this problem to ignite their interest in STEM education related to climate change. We gave students real-world experiences related to climate change by using VR technology. Our educational design aimed to empower youth by providing tools for constructive challenge processing and the avoidance of climate fear. We promoted creative, action-orientated methods using design thinking and STEM fields. We also worked with EdMedia at CYENS, forming organisations from European nations to promote innovation and creativity in education. One of the main goals was to create an inclusive digital experience by working with a partner from a Mediterranean island to overcome geographical obstacles. We placed a strong emphasis on sharing the project's findings widely through online meetings
We applied for the Lionfish project, bringing together our expertise in documentaries and educational research. This took place via the partnership between FOXMedia Documentaries and learning scientists from the EdMedia research group of the CYENS Center of Excellence in collaboration with local environmental centres and schools. We aimed to engage pupils into playing an active role in reacting to climate change. We aimed at addressing the burning contemporary challenge of climate change using technologies and imagination of the future, thus providing new means for connection to this topic to our audience: Today, teachers, schools, and students are addressing a pressing need to include a wider audience in implementing the European Green Deal. In line with the European Commission, we see education as crucial in achieving climate policy goals. Education is critical in raising awareness, fostering a culture of sustainability, and preparing society for the transition to a climate-neutral economy by 2050, which we want to support strongly. We saw the need to make the educational resources more immersive, relatable, and impactful to foster an important element for us: empathy.