ECO-TRAILS – AN OPPORTUNITY FOR LEARNING OUTDOORS CLOSE TO NATURE

  • Krasimir Todorov University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”
  • Slaveya Petrova University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”
  • Bogdan Nikolov University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”
  • Ivanka Dimitrova-Dyulgerova University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”
  • Delka Karagyozova-Dilkova University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12955/cbup.v4.798
Keywords: eco-trails, experiential, education, syllabus

Abstract

Acquiring key competences is a priority in contemporary education. According to some authors, eco-trails provide an opportunity for training in natural ecosystems. The purpose of this study is to examine the capabilities of a constructivist design for learning that is close to nature with respect to acquiring practical knowledge, motivation, and formation of environmental competencies in students. To verify this assumption, the following methods were applied: curricula analyses of teaching biology in secondary schools (Grades 5–8, Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria) and high schools (Grades 9–10, Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria), and pedagogical experiments and surveys among students for approbation of a model for environmental education that is close to nature. A syllabus for selectable (optional) training on ecological topics was developed. A model of ecological training, “close to nature”, was devised through the constructivist design and active approach, and in approbation of the model, students acquired practical knowledge, formed environmental competencies, and an increase in their motivation to protect the ecological balance.

References

Angelova, B. (2008). The ecological education and upbringing in third and fourth grade by means of project work, Proceedings of the anniversary scientific conference of ecology, Plovdiv, November,1st, 438-443.

Kolb, D. (1984). Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development, New Jersey, Prentice-Hall.

Kostova, Z. (2013). Project-Based Ecology Learning in Vocational Training, Journal of Environmental Science and Engineering Technology, 1, 10-22.

Published
2016-09-18
Issue
Vol 4 (2016): CBU International Conference Proceedings 2016
Section
Social Sciences
Copyright (c) 2016 Krasimir Todorov, Slaveya Petrova, Bogdan Nikolov, Ivanka Dimitrova-Dyulgerova, Delka Karagyozova-Dilkova

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