The increasing environmental challenges faced by coastal areas, such as erosion, pollution, and climate change, require innovative educational approaches that foster student engagement and awareness. This study presents a pedagogical innovation based on a Citizen Science (CS) network applied to beach management, integrating students into real-world environmental research while enhancing their scientific literacy and interdisciplinary skills. Developed within a university teaching network, this initiative involves students in the collection and analysis of sediment samples, coastal monitoring using low-cost sensors, and environmental data processing. Through hands-on activities, students acquire competencies in research methodologies, data analysis, and the use of digital tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and LiDAR-based measurement techniques. Additionally, they actively participate in beach clean-up activities, quantifying waste distribution and fostering environmental responsibility. The integration of CS methodologies into university curricula has proven to enhance student motivation and learning outcomes by providing meaningful, context-based experiences. This approach not only bridges the gap between theory and practice but also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration between engineering, environmental sciences, and technology fields. Furthermore, the project contributes to scientific knowledge by generating valuable datasets on coastal dynamics and pollution, which can be used for future research and public policy recommendations. The results indicate that CS-based learning fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills among students. Moreover, it strengthens their sense of social responsibility and active participation in sustainability efforts. This research suggests that incorporating CS into higher education curricula can be an effective strategy to enhance engagement and equip students with the necessary skills to address contemporary environmental challenges.

Keywords: Educational innovation, Citizen science, Experiential learning, Environmental awareness, Interdisciplinary skills.