Surviving in the Concrete Jungle - Outdoor education revisited through an urban lens

The project entails an exchange of professionals working in tandem with young individuals. Together, they will embark on the creation of a comprehensive toolkit to integrate and adapt outdoor education methods into urban spaces, shedding light on socio-political challenges within these environments. The project is aimed at young adults from various countries, spanning both urban and rural landscapes. The initiative unfolds in two distinct parts, with participants visiting two partner organizations. In each phase, hosting regions will be explored through the lens of the following modules:

1. Nature vs. Culture Rural vs. Urban

Nature and the City as Opposites? Resolving the Urban-Rural Binary: We will examine the notion of nature
and the city as opposing entities and work towards breaking down this binary perception. By fostering a
deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between urban and natural environments, we will
emphasize that the city itself can be considered a part of nature.

Berlin for example, is one of the most biodiverse places in Germany, while many rural areas are home to
considerably fewer species due to agriculture and monocultures.

This means that concepts and methods of outdoor and experience based education can be used in an urban
context.

2. Surviving in the Concrete Jungle

We will explore the challenges faced by individuals living in urban areas, including homelessness, poverty,
and unequal distribution of resources.
Through activities such as visiting food banks and homeless shelters, we will gain firsthand experience and
develop empathy towards these issues.
Experimenting with different urban survival technics by implementing them in the self organization of the
group. Using the methods from the natural curriculum to organize the shopping and cooking of the group.
Handing over the responsibilities for the shared space, timing and navigation.

3. The right to the City

Exploring public spaces and Urban Design. Who designed them. Who has access, what are the needs of the
people. Which role does environmental justice take in it.
How are the resources distributed and who is affected by negative environmental effects and to which extent.

4. How do we want to live. The utopian city of the future.

This module aims to engage participants in envisioning and designing their ideal utopian city of the future.
By exploring various aspects of urban living, participants will collectively imagine and create a blueprint for a
sustainable, inclusive, and innovative city. The workshop will encourage creativity, critical thinking, and
collaborative problem-solving, providing a platform for participants to express their aspirations and contribute
to shaping a better future.