Our partner Nova Iskra recently conducted an engaging pilot of the “My Hood” digital mapping tool at Elementary School “Petar Petrović Njegoš” in Serbia. This activity was part of the school’s broader educational goals, aiming to introduce students to urban exploration and environmental awareness.

In this session, three senior elementary school classes participated in a comprehensive introduction to the My Hood web app. The students were excited to learn how to use the tool, with the training session taking place in the classroom using laptops and a video projector. The goal was to familiarize the students with the app’s functionality, allowing them to better understand how to map and assess their local environment.

What Did We Learn?

The introductory session was a great success, with students quickly grasping the app’s navigation and functionality. They particularly enjoyed the interactive discussions and hands-on approach, which allowed them to visualize how they could use the app to evaluate and improve their surroundings. Their enthusiasm for the tool was evident, and they were eager to try it out during the outdoor activities.

Exploring the Neighborhood

After the classroom session, the students took part in field activities around their school, guided by their teacher and youth worker Ivana Branković. In pairs, the students used the My Hood web app to evaluate key locations near the school, focusing on accessibility, safety, and overall design. They worked together to identify areas of concern and areas that could be improved to make the neighborhood a better place for young people.

What Did the Students Take Away from the Activity?

• Gained confidence in using the digital mapping tool.
• Practiced real-world observation and evaluation skills.
• Engaged in thoughtful discussions about their local environment and how to improve it.

What’s Next?

This pilot is an important step in refining the “My Hood” tool. The feedback from the students will help us enhance the app’s usability and design to better meet their needs. We are excited to continue working with young people to empower them to explore, evaluate, and shape the urban spaces they interact with daily.