THE IMPORTANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AT AN EARLY AGE

TitleTHE IMPORTANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AT AN EARLY AGE
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2023
AuthorsLamanauskas, V
JournalJournal of Baltic Science Education
Volume22
Issue4
Start Page564-567
PaginationContinuous
Date PublishedAugust/2023
Type of ArticleEditorial
ISSN1648-3898
Other NumbersE-ISSN 2538-7138
Keywordsenvironmental awareness, environmental education, interaction with nature, preschool education
Abstract

There is no doubt that environmental education at an early age is significant for human development. When we refer to an early age, we mean the preschool and the primary stage of education (preschool education institution and primary school). It is obvious that the foundations of personality are formed at this stage, primarily a positive attitude towards nature and the surrounding world. At this stage, the child begins to distinguish himself from the environment, an emotional and value attitude towards the environment, nature, himself, and other people, etc., is formed. On the other hand, knowledge corresponding to a certain age of a personality (e.g., ecological), norms and rules of interaction with nature are required, on the other hand, it is extremely important to develop empathy for nature through various activities (e.g., actively solving certain environmental problems). It can be reasonably stated that the formation of values, nature cognition and a sustainable lifestyle are three essential factors determining (describing) the importance of environmental education. Thus, environmental education at an early age not only helps to develop environmental awareness but also promotes abilities and the attitude, which can determine a sustainable and responsible lifestyle in the future. From this point of view, the continuity and sustainability of this education is extremely significant. Environmental education in primary school can have a long-term effect on children’s moral and worldview behaviour and contribute to sustainable development and global well-being. The period of primary education is a suitable and favourable environment for the formation of children’s positive and rational attitude towards the environment, promoting environmental awareness and developing a sustainable lifestyle.

URLhttps://oaji.net/articles/2023/987-1693507387.pdf
DOI10.33225/jbse/23.22.564
Refereed DesignationRefereed
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