Abstract: The paper presents DICA4Schools, an education initiative of Politecnico di Milano aimed at disseminating scientific knowledge on environmental sustainability to primary and secondary schools. The program emphasizes an inclusive and engaging pedagogical approach that leverages the Kolb Cycle, Problem-Based Learning, and Inquiry-Based Learning methodologies. By incorporating peer education activities, the program also fosters critical thinking and collaborative skills. DICA4Schools promotes sustainability and resilience through interactive and hands-on learning experiences (i.e., lab experiments, games, and technological tools). These activities are planned and tailored to students’ ages and their prior knowledge and aligned with the SDGs identified as relevant by the school teachers. Preliminary impact assessment indicates that DICA4Schools has been successful in enhancing students’ knowledge and awareness of environmental sustainability. The program has also stimulated interest in STEM disciplines among both female and male students, demonstrating the potential of academic institutions to play a vital role in education for sustainable development starting from early years education.
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