From Critical Raw Materials to Classroom Engagement: An Interactive FSL Experience in Geoscience Dissemination

The increasing demand for critical raw materials required for the energy transition has renewed attention toward mining and georesources. However, these topics are often poorly represented in secondary school education and commonly associated only with environmental impacts. Improving awareness of the role of geosciences in sustainable development is therefore essential, particularly among younger generations. Within the framework of FSL (Formazione Scuola-Lavoro) activities, we developed an interdisciplinary dissemination and orientation program aimed at introducing secondary school students to georesources, mining sustainability, and the professional role of geologists through an interactive approach. The program was founded by PNRR, Mission 4, with the title: “PNRR pathways: active orientation in school-university transition”, designed for students enrolled in the third, fourth or fifth year of upper-secondary school. The activities have a duration of 15 hours, of which at least two thirds must be held in person, for groups of at least 20 students. The program included seminars, laboratory activities, guided discussions, multimedia content, Google Earth-based exercises, and visits to university research facilities. The project was designed to promote active participation and dialogue between researchers and students, linking geological topics with environmental, economic, and social issues. To date, the initiative has involved 25 secondary school classes and more than 450 students. Anonymous post-activity questionnaires showed an overall highly positive response. Students particularly appreciated the laboratory visits, hands-on experiences, and direct interaction with researchers and university facilities. Feedback also highlighted the importance of an engaging and informal communication style in maintaining attention and stimulating curiosity, even among students initially unfamiliar with geosciences. The results demonstrate that integrating sustainability, raw materials, and applied geosciences into interactive educational activities can significantly improve student engagement and contribute to a more informed perception of mining and georesources, while also supporting orientation toward STEM disciplines.