Planning an Environmental Education Project for Kindergarten under the Theme of “the Forest”

Abstract

The primary aim of the Environmental Education since its initial appearance and throughout the previous decades has been the formation of ecological awareness from early ages. So far, most of the International Conferences have been highlighting the fact that Environmental Education should be introduced since preschool age. The Project Method constitutes a much different educational approach in comparison with the traditional educational methods, which have been implemented throughout the previous years. It is mainly characterized by its student-centered nature, the more active role attributed to the person undergoing education and, among others, the mutual collaboration between the children and the educator so as for the desired outcome to be achieved. The aim of this article is to propose a project for pupils of preschool age under the theme of "The Forest". All its successive stages (from the introductory to the presentation-announcement stage) are analyzed by means of activities appropriate for children of preschool age and therefore, can easily and readily be realized by them.

Opinions of Preschool Teachers and Pre-Service Teachers on Environmental Education and Environmental Awareness for Sustainable Development in the Preschool Period

“…Again, research has shown that environmental education has a positive effect on students' greater interest in their environment [70][71][72]. Therefore, environmental education should start from preschool age and continue during the school years [73]. Hence, the perception and knowledge levels of teachers and pre-service teachers with regard to the environment are critical because teachers play an important role in developing children's environmental thoughts and environmental education.…”

Environmental Views and Awareness of Preschool Teacher Candidates

“…Recent educational studies drew attention on EE from preschool period. As it is commonly accepted, Environmental Education was officially established in the 70's by the significant International Conferences held in different countries and in one of them it was stated that the Environmental Education should start from preschool age and have to continue throughout the school years (Tsekos, Christoforidou, Tsekos, 2012). In EE, teachers play an important role.…”

The views of preschool educators on the development of environmental awareness through distance education

“…Therefore, it is vital to implement environmental education not only from the early years of students' schooling but also throughout their school years to sensitize them to and instill respect for the environment (Tsekos et al, 2012). Research by Lubomira (2004) and Palmer (1995) has shown that environmental education helps early-age students develop a positive attitude toward the environment.…”

“…The early years are recognized as a critical period for laying the foundation of environmental awareness, aiming to sensitize children and cultivate a positive and environmentally friendly attitude (Gontas et al, 2020;Russo, 2001;Tsekos et al, 2012). Guven and Yilmaz (2017) highlight the significance of the preschool age, as children undergo crucial developmental milestones encompassing motor skills, cognitive abilities, social-emotional development, and language skills.…”