Physics, Environment and Environmental Education; Perceptions from trainee Natural Science teachers

TL;DR

This study explores how trainee natural science teachers perceive the connection between physics and environmental education, emphasizing its importance for fostering critical thinking, motivation, and interdisciplinary learning about environmental issues.

Contribution

It highlights the recognition of physics-EE links by future teachers and discusses the didactic opportunities of integrating physical concepts with environmental topics.

Findings

Prospective teachers value the physics-EE connection.

Linking physics with environmental issues enhances understanding.

Interdisciplinary teaching increases student motivation.

Abstract

Environmental Education (EE) is vital for shaping citizens who understand and value sustainability as an epistemological and practical alternative to mitigate current environmental issues. This research was prompted by the exploration of the relationship between EE and the physical sciences, connections that are often overlooked in curriculums and in the teaching processes of both this science and EE. It is essential to emphasize that physics provides conceptual frameworks and methodological tools that can enhance the understanding of environmental phenomena from a broad and multidimensional perspective. To delve into these connections, a study with a hermeneutic interpretative nuance was conducted. Through a questionnaire, the perceptions of prospective teachers in the natural sciences field regarding this topic were gathered. The findings revealed that a significant number of them recognize and value the correlation between physics and EE. From their perspective, this linkage is not only crucial for a comprehensive view of environmental dynamics but also to encourage students to develop critical, articulated, and well-founded thinking about environmental balance. The research also highlighted the didactic opportunities presented when intertwining physics with EE. By associating physical concepts with real environmental issues, learning can be reinforced, making it meaningful and enduring over time. This interdisciplinary fusion also holds the potential to increase students' motivation and interest, fostering a more active and engaged attitude in their educational journey