IMPROVING ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PRACTICES BASED ON PROJECT BASED TEACHING

Abstract

The aim of the research is to improve the environmental sensitivity of teacher candidates through environmental education practices based on project based teaching. In this research carried out in the action research pattern, an action plan containing environmental education practices based on project based teaching has been prepared. The research was conducted with 25 social studies teacher candidates determined by criterion sampling, one of the purposeful sampling methods. The data of the research were obtained using the attitude towards the environment scale and a semi-structured interview form. The analysis of the obtained quantitative data was evaluated by t test; the analysis of qualitative data was evaluated by content analysis. As a result of the research, a statistically significant difference was found between the pre-test and post-test average scores taken from the attitude towards the environment scale.  Teacher candidates' views on project based teaching based practices are that it improves their environmental sensitivity, has a positive impact on their knowledge, attitudes and behaviors towards the environment. In addition, teacher candidates propose various applications aimed at gaining environmental sensitivity in their daily lives and when they start their profession.