HOW GEODIVERSITY BECOMES IDENTITY
Introduction
Of volcanic origin and located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores Archipelago comprises unique geological, biological, and cultural values that are translated in a ‘’volcanic identity’’ of the territory and of its’ local community. The authenticity of this territory is internationally recognized through different international designations. The unique geodiversity of the archipelago provides the chance to understand the formation of volcanic islands and its evolution, being a natural laboratory for earth sciences. Volcanoes, calderas, lakes, lava fields, fumaroles, thermal waters, caves and volcanic pits, ‘’fajãs’’, fault scarps and marine fossil deposits, among many others, are some of the elements that characterize the region's geological heritage.
The curriculum of the course aims to provide educational staff, the tools to interpretate the landscape in a holistic manner, having as a starting point, the understanding of its geologic formation and understanding on how geodiversity influences biodiversity, culture and traditions. Skills in volcanic landscape interpretation and science communication will be developed, through theoretical and practical sessions, including field trips.
Methodology
This training course will focus on theory and practice. The above contents will be discussed in the classroom and complemented with outdoor activities and interpretation routes (Geo-sites route, Geo-food route).
Objectives
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To supply educational staff with theoretical and practical knowledge to identify volcanic landscapes and products;
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To supply educational staff with theoretical and practical knowledge to connect natural and cultural heritage allowing multidisciplinary approaches to the landscape;
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To supply educational staff with theoretical and practical knowledge about the potential of outdoor activities teaching earth sciences.
Preparation
After registration participants will receive pre-course questionnaire which will be used by the trainer to learn about participants’ teaching backgrounds and to assess their exact needs. Before the beginning of the course a basic reading list will be suggested to participants to prepare for the training. Participants will also be asked to prepare a presentation about themselves, their professional context and their culture. The presentation will be presented on the first day of the course to facilitate networking opportunities. Participants will receive information about the country they are going to visit in order to prepare them for their cultural experience.
Follow up
After the course participants will be asked to share what they have learned with the rest of the staff in their schools. Further books and articles to deepen the topic and contacts with some other practitioners all over Europe and in the world will be suggested by the trainer. The methods shared and explored and the bibliography given will allow the participants to complete and improve their educational path.
5 days programme (25 hours)
course sessions (Monday to Friday)
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Introduction of participants, outline of the programme, warm ups and ice breakers
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Azores – geological context and history
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Basic concepts on volcanic processes and products
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Geolandscapes of the Azores
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Cultural tour: (Geo)Urban Route in Angra do Heroísmo
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Individual support
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Presentation of outcomes, discussion, evaluation and closing session
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cultural and social programme
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Teambuilding and networking activities
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City tour or a cultural trip
10 days programme (50 hours)
course sessions (Monday to Friday + Monday to Friday)
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Azores – geological context and history
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Basic concepts on volcanic processes and products
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Geolandscapes of the Azores
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Cultural tour: (Geo)Urban Route in Angra do Heroísmo
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Pratical workshop: geosites route
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Theoretical workshop: geohazards and Tradition/Religiosity - Why do we depend on geodiversity?
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Teaching in the field – educational power of outdoor activities
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(Geo)Gastronomic experience at Quinta do Martelo – interpretation tour and traditional meal
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​Visiting the geology and speleological museum
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Individual support
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Presentation of outcomes, discussion, evaluation and closing session
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Online tools for collaboration on projects around video production and video education, eTwinning, School Education Platform
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Presentation of outcomes, discussion, evaluation and closing session
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cultural and social programme
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Teambuilding and networking activities
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City tour or a cultural trip
CERTIFICATE
Each participant will get a course attendance certificate and we will validate the acquired competences on the Europass Mobility upon request. Please note that we have a paperless policy and all the documents will be delivered in digital form.
COURSE FEE
The course fee is 80 € per day. It includes tuition and materials, cultural and social programme, support in preparation and all the administrative work. There are no additional costs or hidden fees. After registration, you will receive a pro-forma invoice which you will have to pay by bank transaction. You will receive the invoice after you attend the course.
SUBSISTENCE
The course fee doesn't include accommodation and meals and participants are responsible to organize them on their own. In some locations we might be able to recommend or organize subsistence for you. Please don't hesitate to contact us to inquire about any specific location.