The contribution of the EGU Education Committee in supporting Earth Science Education

The European Geosciences Union (EGU) Education Committee (EC) focuses on supporting Earth Science education around the world by providing innovative learning opportunities for teachers and students, utilising a wide range of initiatives in order to equip educators with the necessary tools and resources.

One of the main EC initiatives that takes place during the EGU General Assembly annually is the Geosciences Information for Teachers (GIFT) workshop, aiding secondary and primary school teachers in obtaining the latest scientific knowledge. This workshop gives them the opportunity to interact with renowned scientists by attending stimulating lectures, participating in hands-on activities, and accessing classroom-ready educational materials.

The EGU Geoscience Field Officers (GEFO) initiative aims to train teachers in various countries in order to provide professional development to teachers of science and geography at regional and national levels. Each field officer undergoes training in the delivery of hands-on workshops tailored to their respective curricula, encompassing geoscience and geography.

In addition, the EC provides support to selected geoscience educational initiatives in Europe and beyond, contributing to the promotion of Earth Science education through numerous pilot projects. These projects include field schools for teachers, various conferences for educators, and material kits for schools.

Finally, the "EGU Teacher-Scientist Pairing Scheme", a collaborative initiative with the EGU Outreach Committee, aims to establish a network that connects scientists with educators and their classrooms. The scheme facilitates the integration of scientific concepts into the classroom environment through the utilisation of a "guest" scientist's lively video presence, complemented by hands-on activities guided by the in-class teacher.