For Better Physical and Mental Health Through Pedagogy, Didactics, and Nature
On October 22, 2026, the official kick-off meeting for the NATUREscapes project was hosted by Kultivator and the Public Open University Čakovec. The gathering brought together the entire project consortium: project coordinator Kultivator, alongside partners Public Open University Čakovec (POU Čakovec) and Ljudska univerza Ormož (LU Ormož). During the meeting, the partners re-affirmed their roles and responsibilities while outlining key implementation steps for the upcoming months.
NATUREscapes (Nature-Based Soundscapes for Adult Learning) is an 18-month small-scale partnership in adult education, co-funded under the Erasmus+ program with a budget of €60,000. The project directly targets adult learners aged 18 to 65, adult educators, and the broader Mura-Drava regional community.
The project addresses critical findings from the EC Digital Education Action Plan post-COVID survey, which revealed that 33.6% of adult learners need mental health support, and 38.6% of providers need guidance on well-being. Built on Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and the GreenComp framework, NATUREscapes combines soft fascination with sustainability competencies to combat digital fatigue and foster low-stress learning environments.
Key Project Deliverables and Outcomes:
- Educators’ Manual ‘’The Re-Naturing Strategy’’: A comprehensive guide explaining the mechanics of digital fatigue and providing practical instructions on implementing microbreaks using natural soundscapes during adult learning.
- Nature-based Multimedia Library: A rich collection of digital assets, including 12 seamless 30-minute soundscape loops, 12 interactive 3D photo spheres, and 6 immersive 360-degree videos.
- NATUREscapes Web App: A digital hub featuring five specialized modules: an ambient audio mixer, immersive naturescapes, an interactive map showcasing over 30 European locations, a focused learning timer, and customizable user settings.
- Do-It-Yourself Field Recording Guide: A practical manual sharing best practices and methods for capturing high-quality natural audio and visual materials in the field.
- Pilot Testing & Validation report: Pilot activities conducted in Ormož and Čakovec to measure the direct impact of the developed tools on lowering stress and anxiety levels among adult learners.
All audio and visual content will be recorded in the Međimurje region and around Ormož, highlighting the unique biodiversity and natural beauty of the local Mura-Drava area.
By bridging nature, innovative pedagogy, and modern technology, NATUREscapes aims to set a new standard for well-being in adult education. As implementation moves forward, the project partners look forward to engaging with local communities, educators, and adult learners to build healthier, more resilient learning spaces.
Stay tuned for upcoming updates, open resources, and testing opportunities as the project progresses!
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Agency for Mobility and EU Programmes (AMPEU). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
