Bridging Mountains and Minds: An Educational Experience in the Alpine Region

Valtellina is an Alpine region in northern Lombardy (Italy) that largely coincides with the basin of the Adda River upstream of Lake Como. The Alps represent a complex, fascinating, and at the same time, vulnerable environment that holds immense importance for scientific research while offering endless opportunities for educational activities based on direct observation. These activities are adaptable to students of all ages. Exploring the geological and geomorphological aspects of the Alpine environment is particularly crucial for understanding their influence on the structure and evolution of the territory, raising awareness of natural hazards, and deepening knowledge of Geological Sciences. The significance of this knowledge has been repeatedly emphasized, especially today, as these disciplines play a fundamental role in addressing current climatic and environmental challenges and promoting sustainability goals. Morbegno, the main center of the Lower Valtellina valley, is home to the Istituto Comprensivo 2 Damiani. In 2020, the lower secondary school of this institute earned the European certification of Alpine School, introducing a curriculum focused on Alpine environmental and socio-economic processes. The program aims to reconnect students with the mountainous territory, fostering awareness of its characteristics, resources, and opportunities. This interdisciplinary educational model integrates the mountain into the learning pathway, involves local stakeholders, and combines the use of technology with hands-on field experiences. Geology, geomorphology, and outdoor education play a pivotal role in the curriculum, further aiming to cultivate a positive engagement with Geological Sciences among young students. The school also seeks to integrate geoethics into the curriculum through educational games, debates, and an inquiry-based approach developed in line with the outcomes of the Geoethics Outcomes and Awareness Learning (GOAL) project, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the EU. The proposed contribution aims to showcase the school’s organization and activities, providing inspiration and practical ideas for implementing similar initiatives.