The Ground Begins Beneath Our Feet: Teacher Experiences of Critical Place-Based Eco-Justice Professional Development

• In Event: Saturday Roundtable Session 3:05 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Making Sense of the Historical Present Through Critical and Justice-Centered Pedagogies (Table 9)

Abstract

Global climate change poses threats to all life on this planet. Mitigating threats and reversing damage requires knowledge and changes in attitudes and behaviors. K-16 education must play a role in this effort through intentional learning experiences focused on understanding socio-environmental issues through an EcoJustice lens. We present a model of critical place-based learning that has been effective in preparing inservice and preservice teachers to: (1) recognize and highlight the connections between social and ecological systems, (2) cultivate a respect and sense of civic responsibility in their classrooms, and (3) create and implement classroom resources to address socio-environmental issues like climate change through an EcoJustice perspective. The voices of participants will be highlighted through their individual narratives.

Authors

• Marissa E Bellino, The College of New Jersey

• Greer Burroughs, The College of New Jersey

• Emma Casler, The College of New Jersey

• Paige Deibel

• Morgan Johnston, Passaic Public Schools

• Gaby Rivera-Peña, The College of New Jersey

• Alexandra Vargas, The College of New Jersey