How can EdTech support environmental literacy in your classroom?

1 Use digital tools to explore nature

One way to foster environmental literacy is to use digital tools to enhance students' connection and curiosity with nature. For example, you can use apps like iNaturalist, Seek, or Leafsnap to identify plants and animals, record observations, and contribute to citizen science projects. You can also use virtual reality or augmented reality to immerse students in different ecosystems, such as coral reefs, rainforests, or polar regions. These tools can help students develop observation, inquiry, and critical thinking skills, as well as appreciation and empathy for the natural world.

2 Incorporate environmental themes into your curriculum

Another way to support environmental literacy is to incorporate environmental themes into your curriculum, across different subjects and disciplines. For example, you can use online platforms like Newsela, TED-Ed, or Khan Academy to access relevant and engaging content on topics such as renewable energy, waste management, or environmental justice. You can also use project-based learning, gamification, or digital storytelling to create authentic and meaningful learning experiences that address environmental issues. These strategies can help students develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable them to take action for the environment.

3 Collaborate with other educators and learners

A third way to support environmental literacy is to collaborate with other educators and learners, both locally and globally. For example, you can use social media, blogs, or podcasts to share your best practices, resources, and stories with other teachers who are interested in environmental education. You can also use video conferencing, online forums, or wikis to connect your students with other learners who are working on similar or different environmental projects. These tools can help you build a network of support, inspiration, and exchange, as well as foster a sense of global citizenship and responsibility.

4 Assess and reflect on your environmental impact

A fourth way to support environmental literacy is to assess and reflect on your environmental impact, both as an individual and as a classroom. For example, you can use online calculators, quizzes, or surveys to measure your ecological footprint, carbon emissions, or water consumption. You can also use digital portfolios, journals, or blogs to document your learning journey, challenges, and achievements related to environmental issues. These tools can help you monitor your progress, set goals, and celebrate your successes, as well as identify areas for improvement and change.

5 Engage with local and global communities

A fifth way to support environmental literacy is to engage with local and global communities, both online and offline. For example, you can use social media, websites, or newsletters to communicate your environmental projects, actions, and outcomes to your school, parents, or wider audience. You can also use online petitions, campaigns, or platforms to advocate for environmental causes, join movements, or influence policies. These tools can help you raise awareness, inspire others, and make a difference, as well as develop your leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.