The project
This spring pupils from primary and secondary schools in Aberdeen started their journey towards Global Citizenship by taking part in the Miniature Earth Learning Project. In their schools they have explored global issues and how these links with children’s rights and the UN Global Goals for Sustainable Development (SDGs).
“I think that it is important to learn about the world around us, because when we are adults we can make a difference”, says a pupil from Kittybrewster Primary School.
The inspiration
The project was initiated by the teachers Nicola Tanner and James Packham, who developed a term based teaching framework which has resulted in the Miniature Earth model. Pupils taking part in the project began their journey by watching GOOD Data’s video If the world were 100 people. “By reducing the world’s population down to a hundred people, we are hoping that our children will be able develop a sense of meaning and understanding for some of these numbers that can often be so confusing” explains James Packham.
Team work
Inspired by the film pupils went on to explore how many people are affected by different global issues. They researched materials from the World’s Largest Lesson and UNICEF and with their findings they were able to link their issues with the SDGs and children’s rights.
Everything was done independently in groups which is a core approach of the project. It allows pupils to work on a topic that they are passionate about and gives them a chance to develop valuable skills in team working and communication.
“In the Miniature Earth Project it is about working in groups because you get to help each other research new things. And you get to hear different ideas from different people” recognises a pupil.
The project encourages young people to become active global citizens. Exploring how different issues affect people all around the world and at home, it also raises awareness of how young people can help in their own communities.
“We’re hoping that our children will one day be able to share their understanding of some of the problems that affect people around the world, and in our own local communities to make the world a better place to live in” says James Packham.
Sharing ideas
A Grand Finale Festival marks the end of the project where attending schools meet and celebrate the work pupils have done. It is also a great chance for them to exchange the knowledge they have gathered while presenting their results to each other and their teachers.
After running for two years in Aberdeen, the Miniature Earth Learning Project is now accessible to teachers all around Scotland and the UK. The Montgomery Education Centre in Aberdeen has developed a resource for teachers that guides the way through the different steps of the project.
