Environmental Education in basic education units in Luiz Alves (SC): teacher profile and perception

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the profile and the environmental perception of the teachers, attendants and school managers of the basic education units, levels of Kindergarten and Elementary Education, of Luiz Alves (SC, Brazil), in the years 2008 and 2018. For the data collection, a semi-structured questionnaire with objective questions was used, with justification of answers to some of the questions. In 2008, 56 teachers, attendants and school managers participated in the survey, and in 2018, 43. Most teachers, attendants and managers are aware of the concept of environmental education. Most of them reported that they address the topic in class, although they mentioned that specific teaching materials and even lectures could help them better approach the subject in their classes. Although it was detected little inclusion of environmental activities outside school spaces, it was observed an increase in the construction of school gardens, a major ally in the approach to environmental subjects in schools. A gap between theory and practice was perceived in relation to the mitigation of environmental problems pointed out for the city of Luiz Alves. Complementary training in environmental education in an integrated, continuous and long-term manner becomes necessary in the teaching units of the city.