Last week, our partner Design Clips conducted the second pilot of the myHood digital tool at the 8th Elementary School of Kalamaria with an even larger group of participants. Building on insights from the first pilot, we implemented key improvements based on participants’ feedback. This time, we tested the updated version of the tool with 16 teenagers and 2 educators, eager to explore their school’s surrounding neighborhood.

Exploring the Neighborhood: Hands-On Learning

Students were thrilled to step outside the classroom and actively observe and analyze their urban environment. During a guided walk with five pre-designed stops, they worked in pairs, each equipped with a map and a notepad to document their thoughts. The locations included: a pedestrian street, a busy road, a pocket park, a neighborhood street, a playground.  At each stop, students took notes on the spatial characteristics—identifying both positive features and challenges in their surroundings.

Bringing Observations to the Digital Map

Back in the classroom, students used school computers to transfer their findings into the myHood digital tool. They navigated the app with ease, marking numerous pins on the map to highlight key areas. The built-in competition elements added an extra layer of excitement, encouraging active engagement.

Key Takeaways: Learning & Inspiration

Understanding Nature-Based Solutions
We had insightful discussions on how nature-based design solutions could address urban issues in their neighborhood. Students reflected on whether examples from other cities and countries could empower them to advocate for similar changes in their own community.

Boosting Motivation for Participation
Participants brainstormed creative ways to make the digital tool even more engaging, suggesting fun and interactive features that could enhance motivation for future users.

Final Refinements
Teenagers also provided valuable technical feedback, helping us fine-tune the tool to ensure it remains accessible, user-friendly, and impactful for their age group.

What’s Next?

This second pilot was another exciting milestone in refining myHood as a meaningful engagement tool for young people. We’re now working on final improvements to empower students to assess and shape their urban surroundings with confidence.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this journey with further pilots coming up!