Project R-16973

Ecology of the Educational Space (Research)

This research investigates how physical learning environments across the school domain can contribute to education for sustainability and global citizenship in primary and secondary schools. It approaches educational space as an active pedagogical factor: rather than simply providing a setting for learning, space can shape how teachers teach and how students learn, participate and take ownership of their environment. The project explores how teachers and students read, experience and use educational spaces, with particular attention to teacher agency, spatial literacy and student ownership. Through qualitative and design-based action research in diverse schools, teachers and students will collaboratively imagine their ideal learning environments, translate these ideas into their own school contexts, and experiment with spatial changes through learning activities. The research aims to generate practical and empirically grounded insights, reflection frameworks and tools that help teachers consciously use space as part of their pedagogy. Ultimately, it seeks to support learning environments in which sustainability and global citizenship are fostered alongside student agency and active participation.

01 September 2026 - 31 August 2030