The Environmental Dimension in the Primary and Secondary School Curricula

Abstract

The objective of this study is to understand the institutional aspects that promote or hinder mainstreaming the environmental dimension in the curriculum at the Luis Carlos Galán Sarmiento School in the city of Villavicencio (Colombia). The research was based on the complexity paradigm, using a mixed approach as part of a concurrent nested design (DIAC) in which quantitative and qualitative data were gathered simultaneously. Important aspects were identi ed to enhance e orts to mainstream the environmental dimension in the curriculum. The results show the need for an institutional teaching model that responds to an emancipatory desire, to conceptual reinforcement with respect to the environment, and to a transformative role for environmental education by including it as a main element in the curriculum. Conceptual elements were found in the area plans that can be associated with the systemic vision, primarily from the Social and Natural Sciences. This allows for environmental mainstreaming in the curriculum, starting with concepts that emerge from the analysis. On the other hand, teaching-learning proposals are needed that contemplate a dialogue on knowledge and coherence between environmental attitudes and behavior directed towards the educational community. Along this line, the PRAE (School Environmental Project) strategy is recognized in the development of environmental education, but there are methodological limitations to working towards a change in environmental attitudes.