Classroom teachers' views on environmental education

Abstract

The present study aims to examine classroom teachers’ views on environmental education. The study was conducted using a case study method which is one of the qualitative research methods. The study group was determined via criterion sampling which is one of the purposeful sampling methods. The study group included 20 classroom teachers who work in primary schools. The data were obtained via a semi-structured interview form. The data were analyzed employing the descriptive analysis method. According to the findings of the study, teachers perceived environmental education as environmental consciousness, an attitude towards the future and the environment. The family, the school, the social environment, the media and religion were determined as the effective factors in environmental education. The issues about which the students should be informed are the practice of economy, prevention of pollution, keeping the environment clean, an active engagement with the environment and taking a holistic view of the environment.  It was concluded from the study that environmental education was an engagement with the environment and global thinking for the sake of our future.