At the Bauersberg school retreat in Bischofsheim an der Rhön, students had the opportunity to significantly expand their experimental skills. Thematic highlights of the STEM-intensive project week included headline-worthy topics such as biotic and abiotic factors in flowing waters, physico-chemical water analysis, the solubility behavior of gases and salts in aqueous media, and renewable energies.
Not even the harshest conditions — 30 cm of mud, snow, sleet, and biting easterly winds — could stop our enthusiastic young researchers and their dedicated teachers from completing the full scientific program.
Armed with rubber boots and curiosity, the students waded through icy streams to determine water quality using indicator organisms (saprobionts) such as planarians and freshwater amphipods. Their "catch" was observed under the microscope, drawn, classified, and carefully returned to its natural habitat.
They also carried out chemical analyses, such as nitrate and phosphate testing, using photometric methods. The newly acquired knowledge was then applied to complex real-world issues like: Why are more and more coral reefs dying? or Why does fish mortality increase in polluted waters during heatwaves?
The young scientists also gained initial hands-on experience with fuel cell technology—a promising energy source of the future.
On Thursday, the group traveled to Ostheim vor der Rhön to learn about the origins of the iconic soft drink "Bionade" during a company visit.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to the Frank Hirschvogel Foundation, whose continued and exceptionally generous financial support made this educational and memorable week possible for our students.
