Urban environment and environmental education

a perceptual perspective with educators in Palmas, Tocantins State, Brazil

Abstract

Environmental perception facilitates the understanding of the relationship between individuals and their lived environment through the lens of subjectivity. Given that perception influences behaviors and decision-making processes concerning the environment, it can contribute significantly to the planning of environmental education, thereby establishing a cycle of mutual influence. Grounded in this premise, the present study aims to investigate the environmental perceptions of basic education teachers in the northwest region (ARNOs) of Palmas (TO), as well as their perspectives on the environmental education practices implemented at Beatriz Rodrigues da Silva Municipal School, where the participants teach. Data were collected using a structured interview protocol, developed based on essential themes identified through a phenomenological approach in a previous phase of the research. The findings reveal that participants tend to hold a relatively integrated view of the environment, albeit with a prevailing anthropocentric orientation. They also recognize the presence of environmental issues within the ARNOs, highlighting the need for shared responsibility among various stakeholders. Environmental education, as conceived by the participants, is predominantly characterized by traditional and behavioral approaches, often occupying a marginal role within the broader educational framework. Nonetheless, the study suggests that such practices could be enhanced through the teachers’ own environmental perceptions and by reinforcing more critical approaches.