STOCKHOLM! project recently facilitated a pilot workshop in Helsinki, testing its Learning Through Space methodology in a real urban context. The workshop explored how public space can function as a learning environment and how diverse perspectives shape the way we experience a city.
The workshop brought together participants from across four continents, creating a rich intercultural setting. The group included five international residents from Chile, Moscow, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and Greece, alongside facilitators Sannu (Finland), Andrea and Běta (Czech Republic). This diversity became central to the learning process, highlighting that learning through space is inherently intercultural.
The workshop was structured in three phases. It began with a short introduction to the methodology, followed by a guided urban exploration in pairs using a specially designed worksheet. The session concluded with a collective reflection, where participants shared their observations and experiences.
One of the key findings was that the “essence” of Helsinki emerged through contrast. Participants defined what felt typically Finnish by comparing it to their own cultural backgrounds.
Through this process, the city was not described objectively, but relationally — shaped by multiple perspectives.
Learning on three levels
The workshop facilitated learning across three interconnected dimensions:
The city
understanding Helsinki’s cultural and spatial characteristics
The social
encountering and reflecting on the perspectives of others
The self
becoming aware of one’s own perception of public space
Participants reflected that even within a short time, the experience offered new insights and unexpected connections.
Participant feedback confirmed the impact of the approach:
“It was nice to try and see the city from the point of view of other people.”
“We have the same things that strike us, even though we are from different countries.”
“We got so much in just one hour.”
A methodology rooted in everyday awareness
The workshop also reflected the core values of the PRAHO! project, which underpin STOCKHOLM!’s approach: finding meaning in small everyday moments, consciously noticing the world around us, and breaking routine through attentive observation.
Participants were gently guided towards subjective reflection, introspection and collective sharing, demonstrating how public space can become a site for learning, connection and belonging.
The project is realised with support from Opstart.