Project: “Photon and Ecological Robotics: Solutions for a Sustainable Sea”
Objectives of the project
The project engaged primary school students as “Blue Sentinels” through an integrated approach combining educational robotics, Ocean and Water Literacy, and Citizen Science. Aligned with the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030”, the project addressed marine pollution, ecosystem protection, and circular economy principles in the fragile coastal environments of Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo. Through hands-on Eco-Robotics laboratories and guided field research, students were empowered to understand marine ecosystems, analyse human impacts, and explore sustainable solutions using technology and scientific observation. The project promoted critical thinking, environmental responsibility, and active citizenship, while strengthening cooperation between school, families, scientific partners, and the local community. By connecting classroom learning with challenges, the initiative aimed to foster awareness and responsible behaviours for marine and coastal protection.
Activities
The project was implemented through two complementary phases.
The first phase, carried out at school, focused on Eco-Robotics laboratories where students used LEGO WeDo 2.0 and Photon robots to simulate plastic waste sorting systems, sustainable maritime routes, and environmental monitoring scenarios. This phase enhanced digital skills, systems thinking, problem-solving abilities, and awareness of circular economy models applied to marine contexts.
The second phase involved Citizen Science field activities in collaboration with scientific and environmental organisations. Students participated in cetacean monitoring in Mar Grande (Taranto) with Jonian Dolphin Conservation, lagoon ecosystem observation in Mar Piccolo (Taranto) with WWF Palude La Vela, and a coastal clean-up and dune protection action with Legambiente in Campomarino (Maruggio Ta). The main achievement was the transformation of students into young citizen scientists capable of observing natural phenomena, collecting data, and reflecting ethically on the relationship between human activities and marine ecosystems.
Expected outputs
The project generated both tangible and intangible results. These included functional robotic prototypes focused on recycling and eco-navigation, a Digital and Printed Blue Logbook documenting scientific observations and learning outcomes, and a professional documentary video narrating the entire project pathway. Continuous dissemination was ensured through the school’s website and social media channels, while a final public event allowed students to present their findings to families, local authorities, and environmental stakeholders. These outputs ensured visibility of EU support, sustainability of results, and transferability of the project model to other educational contexts.
Impact
The project ensured the full inclusion of all students, including those with disabilities and socio-economic disadvantages. An Open Schooling approach actively involved families in field activities and environmental actions, fostering shared responsibility and community-wide awareness. Partnerships with Jonian Dolphin Conservation, WWF, and Legambiente strengthened the scientific credibility of the initiative and contributed to the creation of a stable local network. The impact extended beyond the classroom, promoting long-term environmental awareness, sustainable practices, and civic engagement related to marine and coastal protection within the community of Sava.
From coding in the classroom to citizen science at sea: we connect technology and nature to educate a new generation of responsible guardians of our oceans.
