What is a 'Lernwerkstatt' (exploration lab)?

In a 'Lernwerkstatt' (exploration lab), curiosity and initiative are the focus. There are no rigid work assignments here, but open materials, tools and thought-provoking ideas that invite you to ask your own questions – and to get to the bottom of them.

The 'Lernwerkstatt' (exploration lab) work focuses on research-based learning:

• Developing questions: Observations or interests give rise to the creation of individual (research) questions.
• Formulating hypotheses: Students consider how their questions can be investigated.
• Observing | Experimenting | Modelling: Practical work is carried out using measuring instruments, telescopes or laboratory equipment.
• Evaluating and presenting: Results are documented using various formats, discussed, and placed in a broader context.

This approach promotes creativity, teamwork and scientific thinking – skills that are in demand in all STEM subjects, and especially in astronomy.

Research-based learning in a 'Lernwerkstatt' (exploration lab) changes the role of educators. They transform from knowledge providers to learning facilitators who inspire, enable and support individual learning paths. The focus is less on simply setting up a 'Lernwerkstatt' (exploration lab) and more on creating an environment in which independent research and self-directed learning can thrive.

Good learning support in the learning workshop means that educators …

• Design learning environments in such a way that independent, research-based learning becomes possible.
• Encourage learners to ask their own questions and develop individual solutions – providing only targeted input and stimulating further thinking through open questions.
• Regularly accompany the research process by providing appreciative feedback, conveying reassurance, and jointly reflecting on the next steps.
• See themselves as learners who document their work, question their own actions and develop them further.
• Cooperate as a team and exchange experiences in order to learn from each other and continuously improve the learning workshop.