| Title | Field School in Costa Rica |
| Target subjects | University Students in Biology and Natural Sciences |
| Location | Karen Mogensen Reserve, Costa Rica Biological Meteorological-Climatic Station “Italy – Costa Rica” |
| Organization | Foreste per Sempre ODV |
General Objective
To provide university students with a practical and immersive experience in biology and natural sciences through field activities and research at the Karen Reserve.
Conditions:
- Availability of qualified experts in biology and natural sciences.
- Access to the Karen Reserve and the facilities of the biological station.
Success Indicators:
- Number of students completing the programme: at least 90%.
- Student satisfaction: at least 80% express a high level of satisfaction in post-programme evaluations.
- Academic Recognition: the field school is recognised with academic credits by partner universities.
Specific Objectives
Objective 1 – Acquisition of Practical Skills
To enable students to acquire practical skills in research methods and environmental monitoring.
Conditions:
- Availability of adequate scientific equipment.
- Organisation of practical sessions with sector experts.
Indicators:
- At least 80% of students demonstrate improved practical skills in field research activities.
- 100% of groups complete their research project with documented results.
Objective 2 – Environmental Awareness
To increase awareness and understanding of environmental issues and conservation strategies.
Conditions:
- Availability of educational materials and informational resources.
- Student participation in discussions and seminars.
Indicators:
- At least 80% of students show improved understanding of environmental topics in post-programme evaluations.
- At least 90% of students actively participate in seminars and discussions.
Objective 3 – Development of Critical Analysis Skills
To promote critical thinking and analysis of scientific data collected in the field.
Conditions:
- Availability of software and tools for data analysis.
- Ongoing support from tutors and mentors.
Indicators:
- At least 80% of students demonstrate advanced capabilities in scientific data analysis.
- All groups submit detailed, well-analysed final reports.
Expected Results
Result 1 – Practical Skills
Students will have improved their abilities in conducting field research and using scientific instruments.
- At least 80% correctly execute the research techniques learned.
- Students competently use available scientific instruments.
Result 2 – Environmental Awareness
Students will have a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and conservation measures.
- Knowledge of conservation matters increases by at least 20%.
- At least 90% of students participate in all scheduled sessions.
Result 3 – Analytical Capacity
Students will be able to analyse and interpret scientific data critically.
- At least 80% demonstrate critical skills in data analysis.
- Final reports achieve an average score of at least 8/10 in expert evaluations.
Project Activities
Activity 1 – Introductory Workshop
- Theoretical sessions on research methods and environmental monitoring.
- Introduction to the Karen Reserve and its ecological characteristics.
Activity 2 – Guided Excursions
- Explorations of the Karen Reserve to collect data on flora and fauna.
- Observation of various species and sample collection.
Activity 3 – Research Projects
- Carrying out small group research projects on specific topics.
- Data collection, analysis and interpretation.
Activity 4 – Analysis Sessions
- Analysis of data collected during excursions and research projects.
- Use of data analysis software and laboratory tools.
Activity 5 – Final Presentations
- Presentation of results obtained by the research groups.
- Sharing of conclusions and discussion of the implications of results.
Required Resources
- Scientific Equipment: microscopes, GPS, sampling tools, data analysis software.
- Educational Materials: books, scientific articles, handouts, audiovisual material.
- Logistical Support: transport, accommodation, meals.
- Experts and Tutors: biologists, environmental experts, research assistants.
- Facilities: classrooms for theoretical lessons, laboratories for analysis, spaces for final presentations.
