Designing "Tiny Forests" as a lesson for transdisciplinary urban ecology learning.

Area of Science:

• Urban Ecology
• Environmental Science
• Forestry Education

Background:

• Urban green spaces are crucial for sustainability and livability.
• Next-generation professionals need training in urban greenspace management.
• Tiny Forests offer a scalable restoration strategy for urban environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a transdisciplinary teaching project using Tiny Forests for forestry students.
• To integrate community needs with ecological data for urban greening design.
• To provide a framework for adapting similar experiential learning projects.

Main Methods:

• A "Tiny Forest" restoration strategy was implemented in a university course.
• Students collaborated with a local municipality and community members in Munich.
• Ecological data (e.g., soil conditions) and community input informed Tiny Forest design.

Main Results:

• Students gained practical experience in authentic urban greening tasks.
• The project facilitated transdisciplinary communication and community engagement.
• A replicable model for designing Tiny Forests was developed.

Conclusions:

• Experiential learning in urban greening enhances student preparedness.
• Integrating community needs with scientific data is key to successful urban greening projects.
• Tiny Forests serve as valuable educational tools for urban ecology and sustainability.