ECO – LINGUA KIDS

In a world which is constantly evolving while being interconnected, global citizenship is more essential than ever. Young learners should be equipped with the “knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviours in order to be informed, engaged and empathetic citizens” (Global Citizenship Education, 2014). In the field of education, Global Citizenship Education (GCED) is included in the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal: Quality Education, which also focuses on promoting environmental awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity.

In the context of teaching a foreign language in early years provides students with linguistic skills and at the same time opens their minds to diverse cultures and perspectives as they are exposed to the reality of other countries. When combined with environmental education, this approach lays a foundation for global awareness and responsibility.

Through environmental themes, students learning a new language engage with real-world issues, promoting a deeper understanding of both the language and the world around them. For example, learning vocabulary related to ecosystems, sustainability, and natural resources becomes a dual exercise—strengthening language acquisition while fostering environmental awareness. This immersive method emphasizes that the environment is a universal concern, transcending borders and languages, and one that requires collective action.

Global Citizenship

Moreover, language lessons centered around global environmental challenges—like climate change and waste reduction—encourage cultural understanding. Children learn that environmental issues impact countries differently, shaping unique cultural responses and innovations. Exploring these differences enhances intercultural empathy, illustrating how communities worldwide contribute diverse solutions and perspectives.

By integrating environmental topics in language learning, educators build young students’ sense of responsibility toward the planet while cultivating respect for cultural diversity. This dual focus prepares students not just as language speakers but as informed and compassionate global citizens, ready to address the world’s shared challenges. Ultimately, teaching languages through an environmental lens transforms education into a tool for shaping conscientious individuals who are mindful of both their cultural heritage and their global impact.

References

  1. Saleem, Amna & Deeba, Farah & Raza, Muhammad. (2022). Global Citizenship Education: A New Approach to Global Citizenship Development. PERENNIAL JOURNAL OF HISTORY. 3. 392-409. 10.52700/pjh.v3i2.131.
  2. UNESCO, “What you need to know about global citizenship education” [UNESCO] (https://www.unesco.org/en/global-citizenship-peace-education/need-know).
  3. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (2014). Global Citizenship Education: Preparing learners for the challenges of the 21st century. (https://www.edu-links.org/sites/default/files/media/file/Global%20citizenship%20education_%20preparing%20learners%20for%20the%20challenges%20of%20the%2021st%20century%20-%20UNESCO%20Digital%20Library.pdf).

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