The project aimed to give teachers and students the tools to study volcanoes in their own regions through a cross-sector approach, combining historical, geographical, geological and societal perspectives, and using inquiry-based, student-centred learning. Its overall objective was to promote innovative STEM learning opportunities for primary school students. More specifically, VOLT wanted to: empower teachers to use innovative pedagogy; help them guide students in investigating their own environment; strengthen students’ curiosity, global awareness and digital skills; and reduce the geographical isolation experienced by children living in remote rural areas. These objectives were pursued through three main results: a blended teacher training course on volcanology, learning exchanges between schools in Italy, Greece and Iceland, and a multilingual educational documentary co-created by students. In practice, the project sought to develop STEM, historical and digital skills, strengthen teacher professional development, and foster active European citizenship, personal growth and interpersonal competences.
We applied for VOLT because we wanted to respond to two main needs. First, schools needed more innovative and practical ways of teaching, moving beyond conventional methods toward transdisciplinary, learner-centred and challenge-based learning that develops key competences such as critical thinking, creativity, communication, problem solving and active citizenship. Second, the partner schools are all located in remote volcanic areas, where students can experience geographical and social isolation. The project aimed to turn this condition into a strength by helping children explore their own territory, connect with nature, compare different volcanic realities in Europe, and build relationships with peers facing similar conditions. More specifically, the project addressed: the need for stronger STEM learning; better teacher preparation through innovative pedagogy and volcanology training; greater student curiosity, global awareness and digital skills; and more inclusion, participation and European belonging for children in rural areas. It also answered each partner’s local need: understanding volcanic heritage, improving preparedness, and deepening scientific knowledge through transnational cooperation.