Engage in field investigations, data collection, and analysis - Summer 2025

By Hellas Study, 14 July, 2025

The Geospatial Thinking and Applied Project-Based Learning Program, jointly organized by James Madison University (USA), Help Academy (Greece), and the International Geographical Union Commission on Geoheritage and parks, will be held in Athens, Greece, during the summer of 2025. The program is implemented by Hellas Study (Athens, Greece).
1. Program Schedule
July 16, 2025 – July 25, 2025
2. Organizers and Implementing Institutions
Organizers:
James Madison University (USA)
Help Academy (Greece)
Commission on Geoheritage and parks of International Geographical Union
Implementing Institutions:
Hellas Study(G eece)r
3. Program Topics and Content
Students will engage in field investigations, data collection, and analysis, culminating in a final presentation or report. Upon successful completion, students will earn 3 academic credits from James Madison University's Geospatial Semester course. These credits can be applied for admission to James Madison University, Webster university(Greece), Mediterranean College(Greece), and the University of Derby (UK), with direct admission available if English proficiency requirements are met.
4. Admission Requirements
Age: 16-20 years old
English Proficiency: Basic communication and academic writing skills
Other Requirements: Strong self-management and teamwork abilities
5. Program Fees
Students: €1,980 (Includes James Madison University credit registration, tuition, local transportation, and lunch)
Parent Observation Group: €980 per person (Includes local transportation, and lunch)

6. Schedule

Date	activities
July 16^th	Field visit: Geographical environment of Athens city (Filopappou Hill overlooking the city) Lecture and group discussion
July 17^th	Field trip: Acropolis, Parthenon, Ancient Agora Task: Analyze the spatial distribution of these landmarks and their relationship to the terrain Lecture and group discussion
July 18^th	Field trip: Trinity Church, Fethiye Mosque, Plaka Old Town Lecture and group discussion
July 19^th	Field trip: Constitution Square, Presidential Palace, National Gardens of Athens Lecture and group discussion
July 20^th	Field trip: Salamina Island Lecture and group discussion
July 21th	Field trip: Help Hellas headquater Goulandris Museum of Natural History Lecture and group discussion
July 22th	Field trip: National Gardens of Athens and Zappeion Lecture and group discussion
July 23th	Group Work: Organizing Data and Writing Research Reports Workshop: Mutual Feedback between Groups to Improve the Research Framework
July 24^th	Field visit: Exarchia district, interviewing local merchants and residents Lecture and group discussion
July 25^th	Presentations from the students Evaluation and discussion closing ceremony

7.lecturers

	James Madison University: Bob Kolvoord (Vice President; Professor) Professor Bob Kolvoord not only has outstanding academic achievements in geospatial science, data visualization and interdisciplinary education, but is also an educational leader with profound international influence.
	George Gampierakis Founder of HELPHELLAS Volunteer Academy \| Strategic Communication Advisor George has a diverse background in military service, media, public relations, and social engagement. In 2019, he founded the HELPHELLAS Volunteer Academy, promoting structured volunteerism and establishing both the National Volunteer Coordination Center and the Hellas HelpBank. He was recently awarded the Gold Cross of Excellence by the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem for his outstanding social impact.
	Kyriakos Maridakis Ecumenical Greek and Deputy Ambassador – Diplomatic Attaché for International Relations of the World Organization for Cultural Diplomacy. As a member of the International Honorary County and representative to 62 embassies and international organizations under the SALAMINIA initiative. Mr. Maridakis is globally recognized as a symbolic figure in the field of cultural diplomacy. Through his personal and timeless approach, he has transformed the historical Battle of Salamis into a universal emblem of shared values—peace, unity, and solidarity. His unique diplomatic work honors all fallen warriors, regardless of nationality, color, or class, sending a powerful message embraced by the 62 nations participating annually in the Salamis commemorative events.
	Dr. Wei Dongying James Madison University part-time faculty member Chairman of the Committee on Geographical Heritage and Parks of the International Geographical Union Head of Hellas Study (希途留学) James Madison University official website: https://www.jmu.edu/cise/people/adjunct- faculty/index.shtml