DIGITAL LIBRARY
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS FROM CHILDHOOD: INTEGRATING ECOLOGICAL EDUCATION TO CULTIVATE CONSCIOUS AND COMMITTED CITIZENS
1 ESIME Ticomán - Instituto Politécnico Nacional (MEXICO)
2 CIIEMAD - UPIEM - Instituto Politécnico Nacional (MEXICO)
3 IES Instituto Jose Vilaplana - Vinaròs (SPAIN)
About this paper:
Appears in: EDULEARN24 Proceedings
Publication year: 2024
Pages: 4906-4910
ISBN: 978-84-09-62938-1
ISSN: 2340-1117
doi: 10.21125/edulearn.2024.1205
Conference name: 16th International Conference on Education and New Learning Technologies
Dates: 1-3 July, 2024
Location: Palma, Spain
Abstract:
Environmental awareness in primary school students is crucial for instilling ecological consciousness from an early age, thereby promoting a more sustainable future. This study focused on evaluating the importance of integrating environmental themes into students' daily lives, using interactive and educational methodologies adapted to their age. Through direct encounters, playful activities, educational workshops, and interviews, the aim was not only to inform but also to actively involve children in environmental protection.

The methodology adopted for this study involved various strategies designed to capture students' interest and facilitate their understanding of complex environmental issues. Green technologies and their social impact were discussed in interactive sessions, where students were encouraged to reflect on how these innovations could benefit the planet. Additionally, playful activities specifically designed for this age group were implemented to promote deep reflection on the environmental challenges the world faces. Educational workshops complemented these activities, providing practical and theoretical knowledge on sustainability and environmental conservation.

An integral part of the methodology was the inclusion of interviews, which allowed for direct dialogue with students about their perceptions and prior knowledge of the environment. This bidirectional interaction offered valuable insights into the effectiveness of the teaching strategies used and how they could be improved in the future.

The results obtained from this multifaceted approach were highly encouraging. There was a significant increase in students' motivation towards sustainability topics and greater awareness of the need to adopt more environmentally respectful lifestyles in their daily lives. Moreover, participants were able to effectively link the content learned during the activities with the concepts taught in their regular classes, demonstrating an integrated and applicable understanding of environmental issues.

These findings underscore the effectiveness of early and active environmental education, which not only educates but also empowers students to become agents of change in their communities.
Keywords:
Environmental education, sustainability, playful activities, ecological consciousness.