El “Nature in the Classroom” educational project Driven by BIOPARC Fuengirola, the project has officially begun its practical phase in participating schools. To coincide with the start of this phase, the BIOPARC Fuengirola Education team visited the Andalucía school to learn firsthand how this innovative environmental initiative is being implemented.
After months of preparation and prior teacher training, the shrimp tanks—freshwater aquariums designed as small living ecosystems—are now fully operational in the classrooms. Inside, they are home to neocaridina shrimp, aquatic plants, and microorganisms that create a dynamic and constantly evolving environment.
From this point forward, the students involved take on a leading role in the care and monitoring of the ecosystem. They conduct regular measurements of water parameters, perform maintenance tasks, directly observe the species, and record data. This work allows them to understand fundamental biological processes in real time, such as the growth of the specimens, adaptation to the environment, reproduction, and the different phases of the life cycle.
In addition to CEIP Andalucía, the project is already active at the Eduardo Janeiro school in the municipality of Fuengirola, where students are already enjoying this educational experience and learning through direct observation of this living ecosystem installed in their classrooms.
Science live inside the classroom
“Nature in the Classroom” It transforms learning into a real and participatory experience. Through continuous observation, students not only acquire scientific knowledge, but also develop skills such as responsibility, teamwork, and critical thinking.
The creation and evolution of this living ecosystem will allow students to understand key concepts such as ecological balance, relationships between species, water quality, and the impact of environmental changes. All of this is integrated into the school's educational guide, with support from the BIOPARC Fuengirola educational team, who will continuously monitor the project.
During the visit, the education officials were able to see the students' enthusiasm and the potential of an initiative that brings nature into the daily life of the classroom, awakening scientific curiosity from an early age.
Educate to conserve
Beyond academic learning, the project highlights the importance of bringing nature closer to new generations to foster a more environmentally conscious citizenry. Witnessing the complete development of an ecosystem firsthand allows students to understand the fragility and value of biodiversity in a direct and emotional way.
This close contact with natural processes fosters empathy towards other life forms and strengthens environmental awareness, a key aspect for facing the conservation challenges of the future.
Monitoring throughout the course
The "Nature in the Classroom" program will continue throughout the school year. At the end of the year, the overall progress of the project and the students' accumulated learning will be evaluated. This evaluation will allow for an analysis of the educational outcomes and lay the groundwork for future editions, solidifying the initiative as a benchmark in environmental education in the province of Málaga.
“Nature in the Classroom” falls under the umbrella of the BIOPARC Foundation This initiative is a cornerstone of BIOPARC Fuengirola's work in education and conservation. Through projects like this, the park reinforces its commitment to extending its reach beyond its facilities, connecting with the educational community and instilling values of respect and protection for nature in younger generations.
With this project, BIOPARC Fuengirola reinforces its commitment to transformative education, capable of inspiring the future guardians of biodiversity.
