Working Group "Young WfD"

How do young people learn what science, democracy, and social responsibility really mean?

The Young WfD working group brings science into the conversation early on—where attitudes, trust, and curiosity are formed: in schools and in direct exchange with young people. With formats such as "School as a State" and "Ring a Scientist," we create spaces for experience where students not only have science explained to them, but also experience, question, and shape it themselves.

Our goal: to make science understandable, tangible, and accessible—and to empower young people to participate in a democratic society in an informed, critical, and responsible manner.

Our focus areas

School as a state – experiencing democracy, understanding science

With the "School as a State" project, we are currently developing a modular guide for high schools that supports schools in putting democratic processes into practice throughout an entire school year—culminating in a project week.

Students take on real roles, make decisions, experience conflicts of interest, responsibility, and negotiation. Scientific perspectives, factual knowledge, and critical thinking are central foundations of this process.

The guide is designed so that schools can use it flexibly – from a compact implementation to in-depth project work over an entire school year.

Ring a Scientist – direct encounter on equal terms

With "Ring a Scientist," we bring scientists directly into the classroom—digitally or on site. Students can ask questions, learn about research, and discover how science works: openly, critically, and never detached from social issues.

What the working group is currently doing

The working group is currently working on the design, structuring, and practical development of the modules for "School as a State." These include:

• Development of didactic and organizational modules
• Coordination with schools and external experts
• Workshops on quality assurance
• Preparation of a pilot phase at a high school in Baden-Württemberg starting in the 2026/27 school year

We always think of education in two ways: pedagogically meaningful and organizationally realistic.

Join us – we are looking for support

The working group thrives on dedicated colleagues. We are looking for people who are interested in actively shaping education, science, and democracy for all project phases and milestones.

The following are particularly welcome:

• Scientists and students from all disciplines
• People with experience or interest in school or (political) education
• Committed individuals who enjoy conceptualization, moderation, writing, or project organization
• Practitioners who are familiar with the reality of school and would like to contribute their perspectives

Would you like to collaborate on modules, assist with workshops, or contribute to the strategic planning of the project?

Then get in touch—we look forward to hearing from you.