Bridging Classroom Learning with Real-World Research

Young learners often experience science as predictable or abstract—experiments with known outcomes and limited real-world relevance. This is where citizen science comes in: it transforms classrooms into gateways for authentic, meaningful research where students’ observations really count.

About the Course

Designed for educators across all levels—primary, secondary, teacher trainers, and beyond—this MOOC invites participants to:

• Discover what citizen science is and why it matters for scientific literacy, societal impact, and student engagement.

• Evaluate existing citizen science projects for classroom suitability.

• Explore how these projects align with the European Union’s five Missions: climate, cancer, oceans, smart cities, and soil.

• Design learning scenarios that harness the scientific inquiry process and connect students directly to meaningful data collection and real-world challenges.

• Complete and submit their own Learning Scenario, and participate in peer review to earn a certificate (95% passing grade required).

Why It Matters for Earthwatch Educators?

• Deepened Engagement: Citizen science turns students from passive learners into data-driven investigators.

• Multidisciplinary Connection: Whether tracking biodiversity, monitoring air quality, or examining soil health, these activities spark cross-disciplinary exploration.

• Global-Local Linkages: By aligning with EU Mission goals, you can help your students understand how local actions feed into global challenges.

• Certification & Recognition: Besides the EUN certificate, participants in certain regions (e.g. Galicia, Emilia-Romagna, and Ireland) may be eligible for additional official CPD recognition.

Ready to Take Action?

If you're passionate about bringing real-world scientific inquiry into your classroom—empowering your students to make meaningful contributions—this MOOC offers structured support, community, and recognition. It’s a unique opportunity to help shape a more engaged, empowered generation of citizen scientists.

Let’s make it happen. Start your journey from classroom to impact!

Find out more here: Addressing societal challenges with Citizen Science | European Schoolnet Academy