engleski

Artistic Activities as a Part of Education for Sustainable Development in Early Childhood Education

Education for sustainable development could be an answer to challenges in the modern world. Early Childhood Education (ECE) has a huge role in the overall development of the children. Therefore, together with families, it should be considered as a foundation for adopting values, attitudes, skills and behaviours that will support sustainable development. Artistic activities in early years provide opportunities for learning through creative use of different materials. Adaptive reuse of materials can contribute to an understanding of sustainable development. Art can be a platform to raise children’s awareness to grow up in a more sustainable way and to be aware of environmental issues. The aim of the research conducted in Croatia was to investigate the understanding of early childhood teachers regarding the educational aspect of the reuse of various materials in artistic activities within the framework of education for sustainable development. The frequency of such practice was also investigated. The research included a use of a qualitative research paradigm (in-depth interviews). The results show that teachers are aware of sustainability, and recognize the need for education for sustainable development (ESD). Participants mostly see sustainability through ecological and environmental issues, and find relations between sustainability and artistic activities. Participants reuse previously used materials in artistic activities. Handicrafts are rarely seen as a part of social and cultural aspect of education for sustainability.

child, environment, fine arts, sustainable development, teacher

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