Educational Activity: Inclusive Civic Education

Educational Activity Presentation: “Discovering the Pedemontano Vicentino Territory”

An innovative and engaging educational project dedicated to schools in the province of Vicenza, combining exploration of our territory, citizen science, and social inclusion, with a special focus on visual impairment.

The initiative aims to raise awareness among young people about the importance of civic education, through hands-on activities that promote respect and understanding of diversity.

Objectives:

Civic and Territorial Education:
Students will have the opportunity to explore and learn about the Pedemontano Vicentino territory, focusing on its natural, historical, and cultural resources. The activity includes excursions and workshops designed to stimulate awareness of the value of local heritage.

Citizen Science:
Participants will become real “citizen scientists,” collaborating in activities to collect and analyze data related to the territory, such as flora, fauna, and the surrounding environment. This approach fosters scientific curiosity and civic engagement.

Inclusion and Visual Impairment:
A central aspect of the project is the inclusion of people with visual impairments. Activities will be structured to allow all students to experience what it is like to have a visual disability, using a white cane and wearing blindfolds. This will allow students to explore the world from a different perspective, promoting empathy, respect, and solidarity.

Proposed Activities:

Exploring the Territory:
Excursions, guided by experienced professionals, will allow students to get to know the Pedemontano landscape, its natural and historical heritage. There will be moments for direct observation and data collection activities, such as mapping plant or animal species.

Citizen Science Workshops:
Students will participate in ecological data collection sessions, such as identifying plants, analyzing water quality, and mapping biodiversity. They will use scientific and digital tools to share the data with the local community and contribute to research projects.

Inclusion Activities:
During excursions and workshops, students will have the opportunity to wear blindfolds and use white canes to experience firsthand the challenges associated with visual impairment. Activities will be structured to encourage collaboration and mutual support, helping students develop a deeper understanding of the daily challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

Reflection and Discussion:
At the end of each activity, there will be reflection sessions in the classroom, where students can share their experiences, engage in discussions on inclusion and active citizenship, and reflect on how the community can become more welcoming for everyone.

Why Participate:

Promote Environmental and Social Awareness:
Students will gain a practical and concrete understanding of their territory, learning to respect and appreciate it more. They will also be sensitized to the issues of disability, particularly visual impairment, while developing skills in inclusion and solidarity.

Form Active Citizens:
Through participation in citizen science projects, students will not only learn but also become active participants in protecting the environment and building a more equitable community.

Experimental and Interdisciplinary Education:
The proposed activities cover multiple disciplines (science, geography, civic education, ethics, etc.), providing a unique opportunity for practical and engaging learning.

References:

• Lorenzo Preziosilli: Geologist – Moana60 Spirit of Community A.P.S.
• Piero Reschiglian: Educator – Volunteer Moana60 Spirit of Community A.P.S.
• Federica Giacalone: Volunteer, UICI Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired Vicenza
• Sabrina Garbin: Volunteer, UICI Union of the Blind and Visually Impaired Vicenza
• Nicola Pino: Volunteer, Moana60 Spirit of Community A.P.S.

We invite you to participate in this educational experience, which not only fosters greater knowledge of our territory but also promotes values of inclusion, solidarity, and active citizenship. It’s a unique opportunity to grow together and learn to respect diversity.

For more information and registration, please do not hesitate to contact us.