Hands-On Earth Science: Fostering Students' Interest in Volcanology at the Feria de la Ciencia y los Volcanes

The “Science and Volcanoes Fair” is an educational initiative funded by the Cabildo de Tenerife through the project “Feria de la Ciencia y los Volcanes-TFFeria.” During the 2024–2025 academic year, the project engaged 3rd and 4th-year Secondary Education (ESO) and 1st-year High School students across Tenerife in the development of scientific research centered on volcanic phenomena and volcanic risk management. These interdisciplinary projects spanned the fields of experimental sciences, social sciences, and the audiovisual arts.

Guided by teachers from participating schools and supported by the technical expertise of INVOLCAN personnel, students navigated the complexities of the scientific method. This collaboration culminated on May 27, 2025, where 230 students from seven educational centers presented their findings through oral communications. The event also featured a "Volcanic Olympiad," where nine teams competed while representing the “16 Volcanoes of the Decade,” further deepening their global geological awareness.

This initiative serves as a sophisticated educational instrument that transcends traditional learning by immersing students in the practical rigors of the scientific method. The Fair is instrumental in stimulating STEM vocations, providing a structured environment where academic theory meets professional practice. Through this inquiry-based approach, students develop essential competencies in cooperation and analytical thinking. This project underscores INVOLCAN’s strategic commitment to outreach and capacity building, utilizing the unique volcanic geological heritage to foster a highly informed and motivated generation of future researchers.