The Volkis’ adventure: the perfect combination of science and creative illustration

Abstract

<p>Earth Science studies usually get less attention compared to other basic sciences, especially at teen ages. This is a pressing problem, which worsens considerably in those countries in which the primary and secondary educational systems regularly minimize or unbalance the presence of Earth Sciences in front of other branches of knowledge such as Biology or Physics. Child interests usually develop during young ages, and this will influence the interest of future generations on the understanding of our planet and the environment.  In this sense, the creation of engaging educational tools and resources that captivate the younger audience is one of the current challenges. More and more, comic books, graphic novels and illustrated children’s books are becoming a powerful tool to approach scientific concepts to kids and teenagers. Here we present the digital book: “Discover the volcanoes: Accompany the Volkis to their volcanic adventure”. A creative way to explain to a child and teen audience, how volcanoes work, as well as their impacts and benefits to our society. The leading characters are the Volkis, a secret club for volcano lovers that learn different aspects related to volcanology thanks to Rocky, the most experienced member of the group.  The book is composed of 13 sections covering the essential information needed to learn about volcanology. Where and why do we have volcanoes on Earth? How is the interior of a volcano? Why do volcanoes erupt? Which are the hazards derived from a volcanic eruption? are just some of the questions that are resolved in it. The Volkis, fantastic characters that represent different volcanic products, will guide young readers and instructors on their journey through the world of volcanoes. The book will be downloadable for free and  accompanied by a webpage (https://descubrelosvolcanes.es) where teachers, educators and readers can find additional material such as videos, coloring pages, experiments, etc.  The final aim of this book is to break the paradigms of how to teach science to children in an entertaining, striking, and didactic way, where not only children will learn, but also all adults who are accompanying them.</p><p>This project was funded by the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) in its program “Cuenta la Ciencia – 4ª Edición” (Fundación General del CSIC) for promoting scientific culture. </p>