Investigation of Environmental Education and Climate Change Course Outcomes in Terms of Root Values

Abstract

The outcomes of the curricula can be given in a programmed and systematic way through values education, which enables the goal to be achieved more quickly. In this context, associating the courses with values in the curriculum enables the desired characteristics to be achieved more quickly. The objective of this study was to examine the achievements of the environmental education and climate change course (6th, 7th and 8th grades) in terms of the "root values" specified in the curriculum, which will be taught as an elective in secondary schools as of 2022-2023. In the course of the research process, the level and distribution of the root values that students are expected to gain from the curriculum of our education system in the environmental education and climate change curriculum were determined, as well as which values are emphasised the most in the curriculum. The research was conducted using document analysis, one of the qualitative research methods. The findings of the research indicated that root values were not frequently mentioned in the outcomes of the environmental education and climate change curriculum. The most frequently emphasized values were "responsibility and patriotism." Conversely, the least related values were "justice, patience, love, and honesty." In light of the research findings, it can be proposed that the outcomes of the environmental education and climate change curriculum should address the root values directly or indirectly through the promotion of related attitudes and behaviours.