Faciliator: Edward Duca
Janice Richardson, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom and Matthew Lee, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
Cardiovascular Screening Checks on Mongolian Nomads During the Khan Khentii Expedition July 2023
During the Mongolian Khan Khentii expedition with the SES in July 2023, I conducted cardiovascular screening clinics for remote-dwelling nomads with permission from the Mongolian Health Authority. Screening 88 adults revealed concerning rates of high blood pressure and smoking prevalence, underscoring the need for cardiovascular research collaborations with local institutions. This initiative emphasizes inclusivity and cultural sensitivity, bridging interprofessional and international relationships. Seeking permission directly aligns with the University of Glasgow’s global engagement objectives. This novel approach highlights the importance of acknowledging diverse socio-cultural identities to foster inclusive interactions. Attendees can learn from this example of forging connections and improving cultural sensitivity, especially among Mongolian nomads.
Johanna Soria Aguirre, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences – Environmental Sciences Doctoral School, Hungary and Eszter Tormáné Kovács, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences – Department of Nature Conservation and Landscape Management, Hungary
Framework for evaluating nature conservation citizen science projects in Hungary
We developed an evaluation framework for nature conservation citizen science (NCCS) projects in Hungary, focusing on science, nature conservation, and environmental education-learning dimensions. Through semi-structured interviews with project managers, we assessed eight NCCS projects, with the Common Bird Monitoring Program showing the most comprehensive performance. While most initiatives excelled in scientific aspects, few contributed to conservation policy, and environmental education-learning was often overlooked. Our findings aid project managers in identifying strengths and areas for improvement. By enhancing NCCS effectiveness for science, nature, and society, our research promotes holistic project development. Our framework offers a valuable tool for future NCCS evaluations, crucial for improving project visibility and impact.
Chris Gary, Vienna University Children’s Office, Austria and Thomas Troy, Vienna University Children’s Office, Austria
SHORE – an inclusive and cross-sectoral approach to Ocean Literacy and Open Schooling
The SHORE project will present a poster highlighting how schools, in collaboration with local knowledge providers like NGOs and research organizations, can benefit from its approach. Over 36 months, SHORE targets ocean literacy across Baltic, Black, Mediterranean, Danube, and Rhine regions, engaging 100 schools through Country Hubs formed by 14 partners. The initiative offers guidance, grants, and digital platforms for project management and learning, complemented by community activities like workshops and exhibitions. Recognizing outstanding projects with the “Ocean Ambassador/Literate of the Year” award promotes broader engagement. SHORE addresses climate change and biodiversity loss by providing tailored support for schools, encouraging diverse initiatives like thematic weeks and citizen science projects. The poster session aims to inform knowledge providers about collaboration opportunities and SHORE’s funding calls for 2024-2026.
Silvia Prock, Junge Uni, Children´s University of the University of Innsbruck, Austria and Christina Prechtl, NATOPIA – nature education, Austria
Change of perspective and self-efficacy as public engagement methods
In our workshop hosted by Junge Uni, we highlight the importance of identity in protecting endangered amphibians, with 2 out of 5 species facing extinction according to the IUCN. We explore how to engage human responsibility in amphibian survival. Through literature mediation, we foster narrative empathy, promoting personal involvement and action orientation. This approach, currently implemented in Tyrol/Austria’s kindergartens and schools, empowers participants to become active contributors to environmental solutions, fostering self-efficacy and a sense of agency. Join us to discover this best practice example and learn how changing perspectives can lead to impactful action for the preservation of endangered species.