Designing and Formulation of an Environmental Citizenship Educational Package for Elementary Students in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 M.A. Department of Foundations of Education, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Foundations of Education, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Foundation of Education, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran

4 Associate Professor, Department of Foundations of Education, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran

10.30473/ee.2025.72493.2785

Abstract

The growing urgency of environmental crises demands educational approaches that cultivate environmental responsibility from early childhood. Existing educational systems have largely failed to instill ecological awareness, contributing to the disruption of natural cycles. This study aimed to design and pilot an environmental education package focused on environmental citizenship for elementary school students in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province, Iran. Using a qualitative design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with thirteen experts in education and environmental studies, selected via purposive sampling. The interviews were analyzed through conventional content analysis following a four-stage coding process. The research addressed three core questions concerning (1) the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral objectives appropriate for a locally grounded environmental education program; (2) the essential content and materials required; and (3) the most effective pedagogical methods. Based on the findings, a 16-hour pilot package was developed and implemented experimentally. Results indicated that the program’s effectiveness relied not only on achieving domain-specific objectives—enhancing ecological literacy, fostering empathy and emotional connection to nature, and promoting pro-environmental actions—but also on contextual and pedagogical factors such as the educator’s role, cultural relevance, and local environmental conditions. Effective teaching methods combined experiential learning in nature, creative expression, and multimedia engagement. The pilot demonstrated that integrating cognitive, emotional, and behavioral components strengthened children’s attachment to their environment and encouraged sustained ecological practices. The study concludes that environmental education packages should remain adaptive and dynamic, evolving alongside changing ecological and educational contexts.

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References

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Journals of Environmental Education and Sustainable Development
Volume 14, Issue 2
January 2026
Pages 51-73

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