The pedagogy of ecology

Background/Question/Methods

Continuing the pedagogical traditions of art and humanities in Cieszyn, we have opened a new specialization concerning ecology and conservation in the framework of Pedagogy at the Faculty of Ethnology and Education Sciences of the University of Silesia. The educational program comprises humanities and natural sciences, especially life science disciplines. It includes field trips among the picturesque scenery of the Slask Cieszynski region, traditionally called Ziemia Cieszynska. Nature blessed Ziemia Cieszynska, which lies among the mountains over the Olza and Vistula rivers, generously. It owes its scenery to the history of the Carpathian Mountains, in particular that of Beskid Slaski, whose outline was described by Louis Hohenggeger in the 19^th century. Overlooking this scenery spreads the crown of the massifs of Barania Gora, Skrzyczne, Klimczok, Szyndzielnia and Czantoria. The crown is filled with numerous valleys and smaller mountain ranges, and their slopes are grooved with life-giving streams. Two spring streams, Wiselka Biala and Wiselka Czarna, meet at the foot of the dominant massif of Barania Gora, creating the mouth of the Vistula – the queen of Polish rivers. The streams flow naturally from the mountains filled with life among fir, spruce, beech and willow trees and enriching the heritage of nature.  

Results/Conclusions

Learning coexistence with the world of nature encompasses a deep reflection of the phenomenon of life, its beauty, diversity and unity. It entails ecological literacy and the need for an environmentally friendly lifestyle. We have developed learning systems for different age levels with particular emphasis on the early years (preschool). The pedagogical idea is to make children and students open to the intriguing world of nature and the inscrutable world of man – the world of the good, truth and beauty. The landscape and multicultural environment of Ziemia Cieszynska provides a natural laboratory for the development of the pedagogy of ecology and conservation. Among our values are: equity, diversity, excellence, honesty, thoughtfulness, wellbeing, sustainability and peace.