Knowledge Is Power
ExplorEarths is an innovative response to the lack of resources for sustainable education in the context of primary education in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals. It combines communicative and pedagogic practices for a transformative learning experience to support sustainable practice.
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As shown in the image above, the content and the topics are informed by the planetary boundaries and are directly related to the sustainable development goals, while the objects and activities are more in tune with the national curriculum.
Understanding the limits of the planetary boundaries and learning how to maintain planetary health is important, not for the environment and the planet, but it is especially beneficial for humankind. Each boundary is a complex system that interacts and connects to the other boundaries.
ExplorEarths uses the themes for each part of the workshop to relate to some of the boundaries that have passed beyond the zone of uncertainty. We hope that by engaging with the different boundaries we can enhance the children’s knowledge about the range of actions with which they can engage to change their behaviour and make more sustainable choices to create a positive impact on our world.
Methodology
This project takes an action research approach in that, in the process of conducting research, it seeks to create social change. This approach is commonly used in educational contexts, emphasizing learning by doing, linking theory and practice. By seeking practical solutions, participatory action research (PAR) addresses real-life problems and encourages participation. Their shared approach to practice is linked to design research and the action research base provides more critical and holistic insights. In The Action Research Handbook, Peter Reason and Hilary Bradbury describe IAP as a unique way of conceiving knowledge and its relation to practice.