Environmental education for schoolchildren with intellectual disabilities in inclusive educational settings

Abstract

Environmental education, a fundamental pillar for the formation of a global citizenry committed to sustainable development, is promoted in Cuba through the school curriculum. However, challenges remain in forming critical environmental awareness and adopting sustainable practices in the younger generations. Accordingly, the objective of this study is to propose a program of interest groups to strengthen environmental education among schoolchildren with intellectual disabilities in inclusive educational settings. To achieve this, scientific methods based on theoretical and empirical knowledge are used, as well as statistical and/or mathematical processing methods. Starting from a diagnosis that reveals limitations related to environmental education, the “Natural Explorers” interest circle program is designed, structured in modules and activities with a multisensory approach and individual adjustments that favor the acquisition of knowledge in an experiential way, the development of skills for action, and the education of responsible attitudes towards the environment, from an inclusive perspective. The assessment by specialists certifies the relevance and appropriateness of the interest circle program.

Its partial application in practice demonstrates its positive impact in the educational context. The interest circle program is the scientific result of a thesis for the Master's Degree in Pedagogical Sciences at the Marta Abreu Central University of Las Villas and constitutes a modest contribution to the fulfillment of Sustainable Development Goal 4, “Quality Education,” of the 2030 Agenda.