Based on the accompanying biology education study, the registered school classes were divided into three different experimental groups. A control group worked only with the teaching materials and practiced mindfulness, but did not participate in any scientific research. The "basic intervention group" participated in the entire project but did not receive any guided mindfulness exercises, while the "mindful intervention group" participated in both the project and the mindfulness practice.
Project start in April 2025
In April 2025, a total of nine flowering areas were planted with the ReNatura® BW3 Gumpensteiner wildflower mix in the schoolyards of our partner schools. A site analysis was also carried out for each area, including identifying specific landscape features important for pollinators, soil analysis and mapping, and an inventory of the plants present around the flowering area. The sites extend from the Enns Valley in Styria to Graz.
Each school class in the intervention groups received a starter kit with seeds provided by Kärnter Saatbau, a soil thermometer and young researcher booklets for each student.
Research period: April 2025 to June 2025
From April to June 2025, all school classes diligently participated in the research and worked on their weekly tasks in the junior researcher booklet, which contained weekly plans, detailed instructions for all work steps and additional didactic material, such as links to teaching videos, games and assignments to reinforce the project topics.
The plants' development was documented using standardized forms, recording weather, air and soil temperature, plant height, and flowering times. In June, flower-visiting insects were counted and identified, thus conducting a monitoring study – also based on a standardized form. Additionally, photos of the plants and pollinators were uploaded to dedicated collaborative research platforms.
Innovative aspect: Citizen science and mindfulness practice
Both citizen science and mindfulness practices can have positive effects on a connection to nature and environmental awareness. Therefore, the accompanying biology education study investigates the effects of combining these two approaches.
Pollinator workshop with flower ecologist Dr. Johann Neumayer
On June 6, 2025, our 2L class participated in a workshop with Dr. Johann Neumayer at the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein. Pollinators were identified, and many interesting details about this fascinating group of animals were learned.
Winning classes 2025
We warmly congratulate the winning classes of this year's project! Class 1 FSB (Bildungszentrum Nord Rottenmann) and our 1L class participated most diligently and uploaded the most plant and pollinator photos. The two winning classes will receive a surprise package sponsored by Zotter Chocolate.
What happens next?
in September to examine the long-term effects of the project. The results of the biology education study are scheduled for publication in international journals They will help to rethink educational processes – making them more inclusive, mindful, and effective.
Our deepest condolences to the victims of the shooting spree in Graz
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