Klidonas: Discovering the Tradition of Predictions and Summer Celebration
Origin
Duration
Target Group
Expected Learning Outcomes
● Aim: To familiarize students with the custom of Klidonas, its historical significance and rituals, while also experiencing the application of virtual reality in learning about cultural heritage.
● Objectives:
○ To describe the basic stages and rituals of the Klidonas custom.
○ To recognize the custom's connection to the celebration of Ai-Yiannis Rigani (June 24th) and the summer solstice.
○ To discuss the role of symbolism (e.g., silent water, oregano, divination) in the custom.
○ To express their impressions from the immersive Klidonas experience via VR.
○ To reflect on the timeless value and importance of reviving customs.
Student knowledge
● Basic knowledge of Greek customs and celebrations.
● Interest in folklore or social sciences.
● No prior VR experience is required.
Classroom Organisation
● Flexible classroom layout allowing for both presentation and group work/VR use.
● Projector, computer, speakers.
● Internet connection.
● VR Headsets
● Sufficient space for safe VR headset use.
Software & Hardware
Virtual Reality (VR) application/video depicting scenes and rituals from the Klidonas custom.
Description
PART A (20 minutes): Introduction to the Klidonas Custom
1. Introduction and activating prior knowledge (5 minutes): The teacher asks students if they know any customs related to summer, predictions, or fire. Discussion about why people engaged in divination in the past.
2. Presentation of the Klidonas custom (15 minutes):
○ The teacher introduces the Klidonas custom, the etymology of the word, and its connection to Saint John the Baptist and the summer solstice, according to the information provided at wilos360.eu.
○ The basic stages are explained: the "silent water," the opening of the Klidonas, and the prophecies.
○ Reference is made to the objects placed in the pot (jewelry, personal items) and their symbolic meaning.
○ WORKSHEET #1 is distributed to be completed by students during the presentation.
PART B (40 minutes): Immersive VR Klidonas Experience
1. Preparation for VR (10 minutes):
○ The teacher explains the process of using VR headsets, emphasizing safety and usage instructions.
○ Students are informed that they will experience the atmosphere and rituals of Klidonas as if they were there.
2. Experiencing the custom with VR (20-30 minutes):
○ Students, either on a rotating basis or in small groups, put on the VR headsets and watch the VR content of the Klidonas custom.
○ The teacher supervises and assists if needed, ensuring a smooth experience.
PART C (30 minutes): Discussion, Analysis, and Creative Expression
1. Immediate impressions and feelings (10 minutes):
○ After the VR experience, students are invited to share their impressions. How did they feel? What made the biggest impression on them?
○ What elements of the custom (e.g., music, voices, movements) became more vivid through VR?
2. Group discussion and analysis (15 minutes):
○ Discussion about the symbolism of water, oregano, and fire in the custom.
○ How does Klidonas connect to the human need for predicting the future?
○ What is the value of such customs in modern society? How can they be kept alive?
○ WORKSHEET #2 is completed in class or as homework.
3. Summary (5 minutes): The teacher summarizes the main points of the lesson, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage and the role of technology in its preservation.
