Collaborative Climate Education through Experiments

Effective Earth Science education at the school level requires not only strong scientific content but also clear communication and meaningful engagement with students. A major challenge in this field is translating complex and often invisible processes of the Earth system into forms that are understandable, engaging, and relevant for learners. This contribution presents an example of productive collaboration between scientific research and science communication, illustrated by the popular science book Climate in Your Hands (17 Experiments to Show How the Climate Works) [1].

The book was developed through close cooperation between an applied mathematician and scientist Kateryna Terletska and the children’s writer Dmytro Kuzmenko, combining scientific rigor with accessible language and narrative-based explanations. It introduces key themes of Earth system science, such as oceanic and atmospheric dynamics, internal waves, circulation, heat balance, and climate variability—through hands-on experiments that can be implemented in classrooms and informal learning environments.

The experimental approach enables learners to observe fundamental physical processes including stratification, mixing, vortex formation, and the effects of Earth’s rotation using low-cost, easily available materials. Phenomena that are normally invisible, such as internal waves and large-scale ocean circulation, become observable through physical modeling, supporting conceptual understanding of their role in weather, climate, and natural hazards. Narrative elements and age-appropriate explanations further support comprehension and sustain students’ curiosity, helping to lower barriers to engagement with Earth science topics.

The book has been incorporated into climate education activities within the Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine and served as a basis for the country’s first national climate education curriculum approved by the Ministry of Education. Its influence has also extended internationally: the book was translated into Azerbaijani and presented at governmental level as part of Azerbaijan’s preparations for COP29 (UNFCCC Conference of the Parties, November 2024). This international adoption demonstrates the potential of research-based, experiment-driven climate education to contribute to climate literacy and public engagement across different cultural and policy contexts.

Overall, this example illustrates the value of collaboration between researchers, educators, and science communicators in strengthening Earth Science education. By integrating experimental learning with effective science communication, such partnerships enhance the visibility, relevance, and accessibility of Earth science while providing teachers with practical and engaging educational resources. The experience presented here offers transferable insights for schools, universities, and outreach programs seeking to advance Earth Science education through interdisciplinary cooperation.

[1] https://vivat.com.ua/product/klimat-u-tvoikh-rukakh/