Liepaja Municipal Innovation Center
Basic information
Project Title
Liepaja Municipal Innovation Center
Full project title
EEA/N Financial Instrument Program Project - Development of Innovation Center in Liepaja City
Category
Reconnecting with nature
Project Description
Discover 14 interactive installations showcasing nature and environmental research,explore art under microscopes,dive into virtual reality for Liepāja Lake's secrets,and see the circular economy through the perspectives of fish farming and horticulture,or the so-called aquaponics system.Our curriculum includes lessons on creatures like Madagascar cockroaches and Australian weaver ants. Rain or shine engage in bird research and do cattle dissection to understand deeper human anatomy.
Geographical Scope
Cross-border/international
Project Region
CROSS-BORDER/INTERNATIONAL: Latvia, Norway
Urban or rural issues
Mainly urban
Physical or other transformations
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
EU Programme or fund
Yes
Which funds
Other
Other Funds
EEA and Norway Grants 2014-2021. Research and Education. The Baltic Research Programme. Component "Support for the implementation of innovation centres in Cesis, Daugavpils, Liepaja and Ventspils." <br />
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https://eeagrants.org/news/programme-agreement-signed-baltic-research-p…
Description of the project
Summary
The aim of the project was to promote interest in and, in the future, career choice in one of the STEM and environmental sciences related fields. Actually, measuring "interest" is challenging, because interest is not always solely related to, for example, how interesting the lesson we have implemented has been. There are other factors beyond our control that affect the participants' response to the increase in interest, for example, if a student comes without breakfast, no matter how passionate the lesson content was, his grade will be low. It is important to realize that a goal is abstract and conceptual. The target groups of the project are children and students (5 to 18 years old) and teachers, and all activities related to nature and environmental research are carried out in the Nature Center's house or its well-maintained territory. The Nature House on Zirgu (Horse) Island, Lake Liepaja, is an environmental education center. Once a horse pasture and waste dump, it's now a restored, nature-friendly space. Liepāja city focuses on preserving lake ecosystems, creating an eco-friendly recreation complex.The facility offers a 4 km walking trail, birdwatching tower, and viewing platforms. Achievements: 14 interactive installations, two educational programs (Environmental Management-7 lessons (Bird Researcher; Young Geographer; Young Botanist; Protected Natural Areas; Quality of Water; Young Eco-technologist; Ant Researcher), and a second program-4 lessons (Human Internal Organs; Biotechnology; Exploration of Earth's Crust; Zoology Under the Magnifying Glass)). 377 Latvian students participated in 11 lessons, with 249 mastering 80%+ of content. Three teacher training sessions on "Eco-technology for improving learning" involved 24 educators overall Latvia. Nature House actively engages in European and national events, supporting activities like European Museum Night and European Mobility Week. It takes educational equipment on visits, organizing diverse family events.
Key objectives for sustainability
Restoration of the previously degraded area has taken place, which is visited by those interested in environmental research. The design of some interactive installations is digital, which means that after years it is possible to create new content without changing the engineering solution - sustainable exposure. Part of the installation was realized by the employees themselves, which means that there is no external influence - the quality of the content is implemented and improved by internal resources. The center's other activities - digital manufacturing - serve as a tool to make inventories, teaching aids, other elements for Natural House installations, for example, 3D printed parts integrated into an aquaponics system installation, instead of store-bought metal wires. Sustainability can be seen in the fact that educational programs are implemented based on the local ecosystem - water research tasks are carried out in Lake Liepāja, thus global research methods are implemented in a local environment. The educational content is regularly supplemented or created new, thus social sustainability is visible - despite the small infrastructure, people return to us several times due to the diverse content. There are also formal sustainability factors – the project's obligations stipulate the obligation to continue the project's operational results for at least another 5 years.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
The Nature House is a part of the Science and Education Innovation Center, what stands out as a distinctive science center. Unlike many counterparts globally and in Latvia, its uniqueness lies in authentic aesthetics and experiential offerings. While other science centers often showcase similar exhibits and interactive installations, those at the Nature House are notably authentic. Created by in-house employees or in collaboration with partners like Liepāja University's teaching staff and students, these installations impart basic scientific information. Given our modest infrastructure, staff frequently complement this with personal narratives, crafting a genuine experience.
For instance, anecdotes about the lives of Australian weaver ants are shared, blending scientifically proven information with our own experiences. A memorable incident recounts an unintentional ant evacuation caused by lighting a fireplace near their installation in winter, revealing their instinctual response to smoke. Such stories contribute to an authentic and engaging visitor experience. Some installations delve into cultural and historical heritage, exploring methods from the Soviet era and showcasing the impact of a former metallurgical company in Liepāja.
Additionally, interactive sessions provide insights into diverse topics. Visitors can experience beekeeping by dressing in appropriate attire and savoring honey with bread. Bird-watching activities, conducted through binoculars in natural settings, require a high level of professionalism from our staff. To identify birds on the spot, employees must possess extensive knowledge of a wide spectrum of species, reflecting our commitment to authentic and spontaneous learning experiences. The Nature House transcends conventional science centers, offering a rich blend of education, history, culture, and hands-on engagement.
For instance, anecdotes about the lives of Australian weaver ants are shared, blending scientifically proven information with our own experiences. A memorable incident recounts an unintentional ant evacuation caused by lighting a fireplace near their installation in winter, revealing their instinctual response to smoke. Such stories contribute to an authentic and engaging visitor experience. Some installations delve into cultural and historical heritage, exploring methods from the Soviet era and showcasing the impact of a former metallurgical company in Liepāja.
Additionally, interactive sessions provide insights into diverse topics. Visitors can experience beekeeping by dressing in appropriate attire and savoring honey with bread. Bird-watching activities, conducted through binoculars in natural settings, require a high level of professionalism from our staff. To identify birds on the spot, employees must possess extensive knowledge of a wide spectrum of species, reflecting our commitment to authentic and spontaneous learning experiences. The Nature House transcends conventional science centers, offering a rich blend of education, history, culture, and hands-on engagement.
Key objectives for inclusion
Applications for educational programs were announced to all educational institutions in Latvia, the project finances transport compensations, which ensured a wide coverage regardless of distance in Latvia. Participation in the program itself is free, raw materials and teaching aids are financed from the project budget. No criteria were introduced that only students with an initial interest in natural and environmental science could participate, thus ensuring equality and accessibility. We tried to interest everyone through the program, especially those who are initially more resistant to the possibility of choosing a career in the future, for example in environmental science.
Results in relation to category
Changing Perceptions:
Through our educational lessons, we've successfully challenged stereotypes surrounding nature and environmental research. Students and teachers now recognize that these endeavors aren't confined to the stereotypical image portrayed in media. Our approach has demonstrated that nature exploration is inclusive, catering to introverts, individualists, and a diverse range of individuals beyond the typical environmental activist narrative.
Diverse Engagement:
We've created an environment where individuals who may not resonate with loud slogans or overt environmental activism can actively engage with and appreciate nature. This inclusivity has broadened the appeal of environmental research, reaching individuals with varying preferences and perspectives.
Community Integration:
The Nature House has seamlessly integrated into the lives of residents, transforming into a regular destination for holidays and community events. Notably, the three-year anniversary event attracted a diverse audience throughout the day, showcasing the Nature House as a central hub for community engagement. The inclusion of special programs, such as the nighttime insect-catching activity, highlights our commitment to providing unique and accessible experiences.
Comprehensive Results:
For a detailed overview of our project's outcomes, please refer to the attached PDF document. It delves into specific results, impacts, and quantitative performance indicators, providing a comprehensive understanding of the project's achievements.
Through our educational lessons, we've successfully challenged stereotypes surrounding nature and environmental research. Students and teachers now recognize that these endeavors aren't confined to the stereotypical image portrayed in media. Our approach has demonstrated that nature exploration is inclusive, catering to introverts, individualists, and a diverse range of individuals beyond the typical environmental activist narrative.
Diverse Engagement:
We've created an environment where individuals who may not resonate with loud slogans or overt environmental activism can actively engage with and appreciate nature. This inclusivity has broadened the appeal of environmental research, reaching individuals with varying preferences and perspectives.
Community Integration:
The Nature House has seamlessly integrated into the lives of residents, transforming into a regular destination for holidays and community events. Notably, the three-year anniversary event attracted a diverse audience throughout the day, showcasing the Nature House as a central hub for community engagement. The inclusion of special programs, such as the nighttime insect-catching activity, highlights our commitment to providing unique and accessible experiences.
Comprehensive Results:
For a detailed overview of our project's outcomes, please refer to the attached PDF document. It delves into specific results, impacts, and quantitative performance indicators, providing a comprehensive understanding of the project's achievements.
How Citizens benefit
Beyond the tangible outcomes of the project, our role extends to addressing residents' inquiries on various nature-related matters. One instance involved explaining the origin of a liquid leaking from a "Linden" tree, showcasing our community engagement beyond formal project goals. Residents often express a keen interest in contributing their discoveries, particularly animal and fish bones, for educational and research purposes. These findings, carefully selected, complement existing center installations, facilitating what can be described as public science activities.
Educational outreach extends to clarifying legal considerations; at times, we must explain that certain findings, though intriguing, are unlawfully imported and cannot be accepted. This serves as an essential aspect of public education, fostering an understanding of legal and ethical considerations.
Citizen involvement remains pivotal in various local and national initiatives, including events like the European Night of Museums and the European Night of Scientists. During these events, we open our doors for free, offering a glimpse into our activities. This exposure provides an opportunity for people to encounter our work for the first time, creating an openness to participate in paid service classes later on, as they come to appreciate the value of our content.
The primary beneficiaries of our project are children, students, and teachers. We offer lessons that diverge from conventional formal education experiences, providing unique insights and hands-on learning opportunities. The project's impact is evident in fostering a community that actively engages with nature, contributing to a broader understanding and appreciation of our environment.
Educational outreach extends to clarifying legal considerations; at times, we must explain that certain findings, though intriguing, are unlawfully imported and cannot be accepted. This serves as an essential aspect of public education, fostering an understanding of legal and ethical considerations.
Citizen involvement remains pivotal in various local and national initiatives, including events like the European Night of Museums and the European Night of Scientists. During these events, we open our doors for free, offering a glimpse into our activities. This exposure provides an opportunity for people to encounter our work for the first time, creating an openness to participate in paid service classes later on, as they come to appreciate the value of our content.
The primary beneficiaries of our project are children, students, and teachers. We offer lessons that diverge from conventional formal education experiences, providing unique insights and hands-on learning opportunities. The project's impact is evident in fostering a community that actively engages with nature, contributing to a broader understanding and appreciation of our environment.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Innovative character
Firstly, the distinctiveness of our installations sets us apart from conventional exhibits found both in Latvia and abroad. We prioritize a unique approach that integrates knowledge of nature and the environment with the artistic elements of science. This blending of disciplines ensures that our project transcends traditional boundaries, offering a dynamic and engaging learning experience.
Secondly, our project's content, encompassing installations, stories, and lessons, is rooted in local experiences. We draw inspiration from the imprint left by non-existent local companies, including waste, and conduct research on living organisms in Lake Liepāja. By using the local ecosystem as a foundation, our content becomes unparalleled, as it is intricately tied to the specificities of our surroundings. This reliance on the local environment ensures that our project is not only distinctive but also inherently irreplicable, as it captures and reflects the uniqueness of what we have.
Furthermore, the unpredictable nature of our research activities adds an additional layer of innovation. We cannot anticipate the specific results of our water research tools or predict the diverse bird species we might encounter during our observations. This unpredictability necessitates a broad and versatile knowledge base among our employees, transcending the confines of a narrow, specific structure for lessons. The adaptability and depth of understanding required in these situations make our approach innovative, as it challenges the conventional notions of structured learning.
In essence, our project's innovative character lies in its fusion of disciplines, its grounding in local experiences, and its embrace of unpredictability in research and observations. These elements collectively contribute to a project that not only stands out from mainstream actions in the field but also sets a benchmark for dynamic, context-driven, and engaging educational initiatives.
Secondly, our project's content, encompassing installations, stories, and lessons, is rooted in local experiences. We draw inspiration from the imprint left by non-existent local companies, including waste, and conduct research on living organisms in Lake Liepāja. By using the local ecosystem as a foundation, our content becomes unparalleled, as it is intricately tied to the specificities of our surroundings. This reliance on the local environment ensures that our project is not only distinctive but also inherently irreplicable, as it captures and reflects the uniqueness of what we have.
Furthermore, the unpredictable nature of our research activities adds an additional layer of innovation. We cannot anticipate the specific results of our water research tools or predict the diverse bird species we might encounter during our observations. This unpredictability necessitates a broad and versatile knowledge base among our employees, transcending the confines of a narrow, specific structure for lessons. The adaptability and depth of understanding required in these situations make our approach innovative, as it challenges the conventional notions of structured learning.
In essence, our project's innovative character lies in its fusion of disciplines, its grounding in local experiences, and its embrace of unpredictability in research and observations. These elements collectively contribute to a project that not only stands out from mainstream actions in the field but also sets a benchmark for dynamic, context-driven, and engaging educational initiatives.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
Chemistry played a role, highlighted by our Norwegian partners who shared expertise in crafting natural lip balm from raw materials.This knowledge was seamlessly integrated into our curriculum, offering students the opportunity to learn this skill during school holidays. In the realm of Biology, our team sought guidance from a local veterinarian for an in-depth understanding of animal internal organs. Collaboration extended to researchers and specialists from the Institute of Hydroecology of Latvia, resulting in the creation of teaching aids and sophisticated water research tools.The Institute commended our material and technical resources,equating them to those found in research institutes.Engineering and technology were integral to our project,particularly evident in the implementation of the "Wind station" installation.Specialists from the industry collaborated on its engineering aspects, and additional applications were developed based on findings from Liepāja's NATURA 2000 territory.The field of Medicine played a crucial role in the implementation of the bovine eye dissection lesson.Our team sought consultation from a practicing eye specialist at a local hospital to gain a detailed understanding of the eye's structure.This collaboration ensured the accuracy and educational value of the lesson.Moreover, close collaboration with teaching staff and students from Liepāja University was essential for developing digital content for our installations.Their input enriched our project, bringing academic insights and technological proficiency.The interaction between these diverse fields was symbiotic,fostering a holistic educational environment.By incorporating insights from Chemistry,Biology,Engineering,Technology,and Medicine,we ensured that our project offered a multifaceted learning experience.This interdisciplinary approach not only enriched the educational content but also demonstrated the practical application of knowledge across various domains.
Methodology used
Interdisciplinary Integration:
Our project takes a distinctive interdisciplinary approach by seamlessly blending knowledge of nature and the environment with artistic elements of science. This integration is evident in our installations, stories, and lessons.
Local Experience as a Foundation:
The content of our installations, stories, and lessons is meticulously crafted based on local experiences. This local foundation ensures that our project is rooted in the specificities of our surroundings, contributing to its uniqueness and relevance.
Unpredictability in Research and Observations:
A key aspect of our methodology is embracing the unpredictable nature of our research activities. For example, we utilize water research tools without prior knowledge of the specific organisms we will encounter. This unpredictability extends to bird observations, where the species observed on the opposite shore of the lake are not predetermined. This approach challenges the conventional notion of structured learning, requiring our team to possess a broad and adaptable knowledge base.
Continuous Adaptation and Improvement:
We prioritize continuous adaptation and improvement in response to the evolving needs and dynamics of our project. This includes refining our educational content, enhancing installations, and incorporating feedback from stakeholders. This iterative process ensures that our project remains dynamic, relevant, and responsive to the diverse interests of our audience.
Collaboration and Community Engagement:
Collaboration is fundamental to our methodology. We actively engage with local experts, including veterinarians, researchers and professionals from various industries.
Our project takes a distinctive interdisciplinary approach by seamlessly blending knowledge of nature and the environment with artistic elements of science. This integration is evident in our installations, stories, and lessons.
Local Experience as a Foundation:
The content of our installations, stories, and lessons is meticulously crafted based on local experiences. This local foundation ensures that our project is rooted in the specificities of our surroundings, contributing to its uniqueness and relevance.
Unpredictability in Research and Observations:
A key aspect of our methodology is embracing the unpredictable nature of our research activities. For example, we utilize water research tools without prior knowledge of the specific organisms we will encounter. This unpredictability extends to bird observations, where the species observed on the opposite shore of the lake are not predetermined. This approach challenges the conventional notion of structured learning, requiring our team to possess a broad and adaptable knowledge base.
Continuous Adaptation and Improvement:
We prioritize continuous adaptation and improvement in response to the evolving needs and dynamics of our project. This includes refining our educational content, enhancing installations, and incorporating feedback from stakeholders. This iterative process ensures that our project remains dynamic, relevant, and responsive to the diverse interests of our audience.
Collaboration and Community Engagement:
Collaboration is fundamental to our methodology. We actively engage with local experts, including veterinarians, researchers and professionals from various industries.
How stakeholders are engaged
The municipal administration plays a crucial role as a local stakeholder, ensuring the continuity of the project. It covers communal expenses, co-finances activities, and provides funding for the Nature House's transport services to educational institutions in Liepāja. This support streamlines student travel, allowing seamless transitions between the Nature House and their educational institutions for a more comprehensive learning experience.
On a national scale, significant support comes from the Ministry of Education and Science and the State Education Development Agency. Beyond monitoring project indicators, these entities actively engage in supportive roles, acting as vital partners in communication campaigns and playing integral roles in essential events. Notably, the Nature House was invited to represent the center at the 5th World Congress of Latvian Scientists, "Research Latvia," and participated in a discussion on "100 reasons why science is fun" at a festival in Arendal, Norway. This collaboration underscores their commitment to advancing the project's objectives and promoting the engagement of the Nature House on a national level.
In essence, the synergy between local and national stakeholders ensures not only financial sustainability but also a broader reach and impact. The active involvement of these entities emphasizes their acknowledgment of the project's significance, establishing them as instrumental partners in its ongoing success.
On a national scale, significant support comes from the Ministry of Education and Science and the State Education Development Agency. Beyond monitoring project indicators, these entities actively engage in supportive roles, acting as vital partners in communication campaigns and playing integral roles in essential events. Notably, the Nature House was invited to represent the center at the 5th World Congress of Latvian Scientists, "Research Latvia," and participated in a discussion on "100 reasons why science is fun" at a festival in Arendal, Norway. This collaboration underscores their commitment to advancing the project's objectives and promoting the engagement of the Nature House on a national level.
In essence, the synergy between local and national stakeholders ensures not only financial sustainability but also a broader reach and impact. The active involvement of these entities emphasizes their acknowledgment of the project's significance, establishing them as instrumental partners in its ongoing success.
Global challenges
Environmental Awareness and Education:
Global Challenge: Lack of widespread environmental awareness and education.
Local Solution: Through installations, stories, and lessons grounded in local experiences, our project fosters environmental awareness.
Biodiversity Conservation:
Global Challenge: Biodiversity loss and habitat degradation.
Local Solution: Our project actively engages in research on living organisms in Lake Liepāja. By using the local ecosystem as a foundation, we contribute to biodiversity conservation efforts. This approach can inspire similar initiatives globally, encouraging the exploration and preservation of local biodiversity.
Innovative Teaching Approaches:
Global Challenge: Outdated and conventional teaching approaches.
Local Solution: By offering a dynamic and engaging learning experience, our project provides a model for modern teaching approaches that cater to diverse learning styles and preferences.
Technology Integration for Education:
Global Challenge: Limited integration of technology in environmental education.
Local Solution: Utilizing digital technology in installations, such as interactive displays and virtual reality, enhances the educational experience. This showcases the potential of technology in making environmental education more interactive and appealing, serving as a global example for leveraging technology for educational purposes.
Local Solutions for Global Challenges:
Global Challenge: The need for scalable and adaptable local solutions to global challenges.
Local Solution: Our project demonstrates the effectiveness of locally rooted solutions. By addressing global challenges within the context of the local environment, it provides a scalable model for tailoring solutions to specific regions, fostering a sense of relevance and impact.
Global Challenge: Lack of widespread environmental awareness and education.
Local Solution: Through installations, stories, and lessons grounded in local experiences, our project fosters environmental awareness.
Biodiversity Conservation:
Global Challenge: Biodiversity loss and habitat degradation.
Local Solution: Our project actively engages in research on living organisms in Lake Liepāja. By using the local ecosystem as a foundation, we contribute to biodiversity conservation efforts. This approach can inspire similar initiatives globally, encouraging the exploration and preservation of local biodiversity.
Innovative Teaching Approaches:
Global Challenge: Outdated and conventional teaching approaches.
Local Solution: By offering a dynamic and engaging learning experience, our project provides a model for modern teaching approaches that cater to diverse learning styles and preferences.
Technology Integration for Education:
Global Challenge: Limited integration of technology in environmental education.
Local Solution: Utilizing digital technology in installations, such as interactive displays and virtual reality, enhances the educational experience. This showcases the potential of technology in making environmental education more interactive and appealing, serving as a global example for leveraging technology for educational purposes.
Local Solutions for Global Challenges:
Global Challenge: The need for scalable and adaptable local solutions to global challenges.
Local Solution: Our project demonstrates the effectiveness of locally rooted solutions. By addressing global challenges within the context of the local environment, it provides a scalable model for tailoring solutions to specific regions, fostering a sense of relevance and impact.
Learning transferred to other parties
Interdisciplinary Integration Methodology:
The innovative approach of integrating diverse disciplines, such as nature, environment, art, and science, can be replicated in various educational settings.
Local Experience as a Foundation:
The emphasis on crafting content based on local experiences is a transferable element. Other projects can draw inspiration from their own surroundings, incorporating local history, environmental features, or cultural elements into their educational content. This ensures relevance and connection with the target audience.
Collaboration and Community Engagement:
The collaborative approach with local experts and community engagement is replicable. Other projects can establish partnerships with professionals, institutions, and the community to enrich their initiatives. Collaborative efforts amplify expertise, diversify perspectives, and enhance the overall impact.
Educational Content Development:
The process of involving local universities, like Liepāja University, in developing digital content for installations is transferable. Other projects can collaborate with academic institutions to enhance educational content, leveraging the expertise and creativity of students and faculty.
Utilization of Digital Technology:
The integration of digital technology in installations is a replicable element. Similar projects can leverage technology, including interactive displays, virtual reality, or digital tools, to enhance the educational experience and cater to the preferences of modern learners.
The innovative approach of integrating diverse disciplines, such as nature, environment, art, and science, can be replicated in various educational settings.
Local Experience as a Foundation:
The emphasis on crafting content based on local experiences is a transferable element. Other projects can draw inspiration from their own surroundings, incorporating local history, environmental features, or cultural elements into their educational content. This ensures relevance and connection with the target audience.
Collaboration and Community Engagement:
The collaborative approach with local experts and community engagement is replicable. Other projects can establish partnerships with professionals, institutions, and the community to enrich their initiatives. Collaborative efforts amplify expertise, diversify perspectives, and enhance the overall impact.
Educational Content Development:
The process of involving local universities, like Liepāja University, in developing digital content for installations is transferable. Other projects can collaborate with academic institutions to enhance educational content, leveraging the expertise and creativity of students and faculty.
Utilization of Digital Technology:
The integration of digital technology in installations is a replicable element. Similar projects can leverage technology, including interactive displays, virtual reality, or digital tools, to enhance the educational experience and cater to the preferences of modern learners.
Keywords
Nature and Environmental Education
Outdoors
STEAM
Nature House
Local Ecosystem
