SCIBORG:
The science literacy board game: a new tool for improving science literacy with informal youth education

Program: Erasmus+

Key action: Partnerships for cooperation and exchanges of practices

Action Type: Small-scale partnerships in youth

Project Reference: 2023-3-AT01-KA210-YOU-000179226

Start Date - End Date: 01/04/2024 - 31/03/2025

Duration: 12 months

Our role: Partner

Topics

• Media literacy and tackling disinformation
• New learning and teaching methods and approaches
• Environment and climate change

The SCIBORG project, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme, has as aprimary objective to enhance the civic science literacy of young people and youth workers through the development and implementation of an innovative board game. SCIBORG encompasses co-creation, accessibility, engagement, and inclusivity to empower young people with the skills and knowledge needed to better understand the complex field of science and contribute effectively to civic discussions on current topics like climate change.

🔬 Empowering Science Literacy Through Play 🔬

Limited trust in and engagement with science are often rooted in a lack of understanding of the research process and how scientific data is generated. This critical gap underscores the importance of civic science literacy, which equips individuals with the tools to comprehend the dynamic nature of scientific knowledge and critically evaluate media-reported science. Unfortunately, traditional education often struggles to address these complex interdisciplinary topics due to time constraints and competing priorities.

Recognizing this gap, the SCIBORG Project introduces a new approach: a youth-oriented board game designed to teach science literacy in a fun, engaging, and interactive way. Board games have the unique ability to immerse players in first-person scenarios, making them a powerful tool for tackling complex topics. They combine learning with play, making them ideal for informal education settings that engage both youth and adults.

🌱 What Makes SCIBORG Unique?

• Focus on Environmental Science: While rooted in environmental topics, the game teaches transferable skills that apply across scientific fields.
• Interactive & Inclusive: The game encourages players to engage with concepts like the peer review process, the evolution of scientific knowledge, and critical thinking.
• Co-Creation & Collaboration: Developed in partnership with youth and educators from across Europe, the game is shaped by diverse perspectives and real-world insights.
• Accessibility: Available in multiple languages as a print-and-play version and an online application, SCIBORG ensures inclusivity and widespread reach.

By transforming complex scientific concepts into an accessible and enjoyable experience, SCIBORG fosters critical thinking, curiosity, and informed decision-making among youth. Together, we are building a tool that bridges the gap between science and society, inspiring a new generation to embrace the wonders of discovery. 🚀✨

1️⃣ Enhance Science Literacy
📖 Equip youth with the skills to understand and critically evaluate the scientific process and its outcomes.

2️⃣ Promote Hands-On Learning Through Play
🎲 Develop an engaging board game that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

3️⃣ Empower Educators and Youth Workers
🌍 Provide educators with an innovative tool to teach science concepts in formal and informal settings.