We exist because the environment exists. We eat because the environment feeds. We live because the environment lets us. If this single environment is the core foundation of our livelihood, we must learn about it. Thus, to get insights into the environment, one must dive into Environmental education.
Environmental education (EE) plays a big responsibility in bringing us closer to the world around us by teaching us about both natural and constructed settings. EE fosters awareness of issues that affect the environment we all rely on, as well as measures we can do to enhance and preserve it.
Thus, here are the top 3 benefits of environmental education:
Tolerance and compassion are encouraged
To get a thorough understanding of a problem, EE urges students to look into all aspects of it. It encourages tolerance of opposing viewpoints and civilizations.
Multiple disciplines have fulfilled state and national learning criteria
Teachers may combine science, math, language arts, history, and other subjects into one rich lesson or activity by introducing EE practices into the curriculum, while still meeting multiple state and national academic requirements across the board. Interdisciplinary learning may be enhanced by taking a lesson outside or bringing nature into the classroom.
The prevalence of biophobia and nature deficit disorder is decreasing
EE encourages awareness, understanding, and respect for the environment by introducing pupils to nature and letting them study and play outside. It cures “nature deficit disorder”, and helps a lot with its creative syllabus.
Healthy living is promoted
EE gets students outside and active while also addressing some of today’s youth’s health challenges, such as obesity, attention deficit disorder, and depression. Good dietary habits are usually emphasized in EE, and spending more time outside relieves stress.
Students and instructors are given more autonomy
Active learning, citizenship, and student leadership are all promoted by EE. It encourages children to speak up and make a difference in their communities and at school. Instructors can get help from EE to improve their environmental knowledge and teaching skills. I hope that these “top ten” benefits motivate you to use EE in your classroom!