LOESS at the Living Knowledge Network Conference
Girona, Spain – June 26-28, 2024
The Living Knowledge Network, the formal international network of Science Shops and Community-Based Research, hosted its 10th conference, titled “Building and Sustaining Next Generation Engagement,” from June 26-28, 2024, at the Universitat de Girona. The event brought together experts in community-engaged research.
A highlight of the conference was the participation of LOESS, which presented posters showcasing their work. On the afternoon of June 27, a significant workshop on “Crowd-Mapping, Community Engaged Research and Learning and Soil Health Improvement” was conducted by Norbert Steinhaus. He emphasized the versatility of Community Engaged Research and Learning (CERL) tools across various fields, particularly in soil health. Steinhaus noted, “CERL tools can be used in all fields, like in the soil health field. LOESS is an example of embracing CERL and using tools like crowd-mapping.”
The LOESS project aimed to educate on the importance of soil health through various CERL-based initiatives. These included the development of educational materials such as courses, teaching modules, and practical activities. Additionally, LOESS shared the goals of the creation of an augmented reality app and a crowd-mapping tool to foster collaborative projects with students and local communities. It was also mentioned that LOESS is working on a MOOC for teachers featuring educational and training resources about Soil. During the workshop, the first draft of the Crowd Mapping tool was presented, receiving positive feedback from participants.
On the last day, the closing event of the conference celebrated the formation of new connections, the exchange of ideas, and the inspiration drawn from the collaborative atmosphere.
For more information on the conference program, visit the Living Knowledge Network site.
