Investigative real-world science education
Seasons changing while the heart beats. Seen from the Saddle
Granted amount:
DKK 47,064
Outdoor educational spaces
Villum Foundation's grant area Children, Youth, and Science will, with a new pool of 40 million DKK, support schools and municipalities that wish to enhance the development of new outdoor learning spaces with innovative teaching methods.
When teaching moves outdoors, it provides students with the opportunity to directly engage in practical learning activities that enhance their understanding of science and technology through tangible experiences.
By working with soil samples, measuring radiation from space, and analyzing plant species in local and authentic environments, students develop a deeper connection to scientific topics. This hands-on approach makes science concrete and relatable, not only improving comprehension but also increasing their science capital by building their knowledge, confidence, and interest in scientific subjects.
Students acquire valuable skills such as observation, data collection, and critical thinking, which they can apply in further education and as active citizens in society.
Experiencing the local environment and nature as part of their education also fosters an understanding of the complex systems within nature and society, inspiring a sustainable mindset. These are key elements in Villum Foundation's mission to promote more and better investigative, real-world, and practical teaching in science and technology.
What is an outdoor learning space for science and technology education?
- An outdoor learning space is a physically defined area established on the school grounds or a nearby outdoor area, designed to provide opportunities for students to engage with, investigate, and work on scientific concepts, natural phenomena, and technologies.
- The physical space is equipped with structures, materials, and tools. It can take the form of an outdoor workshop, laboratory, animal enclosures, energy installations, observatories, school gardens, water workshops, and much more.
- Educators associated with the space either possess or acquire specific skills during the project to teach effectively in this outdoor setting.
- The facilities are designed to support investigative, real-world, practical, varied, and student-centered teaching approaches.
- The space can be used within existing science subjects or across disciplines. While there may be overlaps with subjects like history, physical education, crafts and design, visual arts, and food studies, the majority of activities in the learning space must focus on science and technology education.
Status
Open
Application amount range
DKK 300,000 - DKK 4.0m
Tidsramme
Op til fire år
Application
- Open for submissionsApplication
- Deadline for submissions
14:00
The activities in the project must be aimed at primary school students (grades 0–9). A secondary target group is the educators and their professional development in connection with the projects.
Applications are accepted from individual primary schools, groups of primary schools working together, or municipalities.
Grants can be applied for in amounts ranging from a minimum of 300,000 DKK to a maximum of 4,000,000 DKK for up to four years, covering expenses such as equipment, staff salaries for advisors, release of teachers participating in professional development, development of teaching materials, and more.
There is no requirement for own financing, but applicants are expected to clearly outline how the initiative can be sustained beyond the grant period.
Funding can be applied for:
- Minor construction and renovations
- Materials and equipment
- Professional development for teachers
- Development of didactics and teaching programs
- Knowledge sharing
- Commercial companies
- Very large construction projects
- Foundation VAT (Fondsmoms)
Three examples of how we envision such learning spaces could unfold:
Forest Laboratory
The Forest Laboratory is a teaching space located on the edge of the forest, where elements of nature are integrated into instruction. The area consists of a circular seating arrangement made of wood, surrounded by tall trees that provide shade and create a natural atmosphere. Access to microscopes, insect glasses, and field equipment allows students to examine soil samples, plants, and small creatures they may find in the forest. A small whiteboard or chalkboard is set up on a tree, and a rainproof canopy provides the opportunity for year-round instruction. This space fosters a unique connection between students and nature while teaching about biodiversity and ecology in practice.
Technology and Energy Garden
The Technology and Energy Garden is an outdoor space where students can experiment with solar energy, wind power, and hydroelectric power. Small solar panels and wind turbines are set up, allowing students to measure energy production and test how renewable energy systems work. A section with small water channels and pumps enables the testing of water power. Stainless steel tables and benches provide space for experiments and note-taking. The Technology and Energy Garden makes teaching about technology and sustainability tangible while helping students understand the role of energy in society.
Climate and Weather Station
The Climate and Weather Station is an open outdoor learning space equipped with measuring equipment, allowing students to record and analyze local weather data. Rain gauges, anemometers, and temperature sensors are present, along with a small storage shed for IT equipment used to log data. A seating area with a view of the area is equipped with large signs and maps explaining how climate impacts local flora and fauna. There is also space for a weather station with online connectivity, allowing data analysis over time. This learning space combines theory and practice, giving students a deeper understanding of climate change and meteorology.
Two virtual information sessions will be held for potential applicants and other interested parties.
They will take place on January 15, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, and on January 16, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
To register for the sessions please contact: tir@villumfonden.dk
Applications must be submitted through our application portal no later than April 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM.
The applications will be fully processed for funding by the end of September 2025.
Applicants must, in collaboration with relevant partners, submit an application that includes:
- Vision and goals for the outdoor learning spaces, including an explanation of how they align with the school’s or municipal strategies.
- Description of the organization around the space – including its location, design, management, etc.
- Plan for ensuring the professional development of teachers and the development of teaching programs.
- Description of collaboration relationships regarding the learning space and documentation showing that school leaders and teachers support the initiative.
- Plan for the continuation and sustainability of the learning space.
- Budget and timeline with milestones.
What we prioritize:
- The development of a physical learning space through the project.
- The inclusion of professional development or training for teachers and educators.
- Clearly outlined didactic considerations regarding space design and teaching programs.
- The learning space is established in close proximity to the school and integrated into the local school context.
- Safety considerations for both children and adults in outdoor learning spaces.
- A plan for the long-term sustainability of the project beyond the grant period.
(All documents in Danish)
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