Experiential environmental learning together with the trees in the Antropocene

Abstract

The study reflects on the encounter of young people with trees, focusing on a holistic and ecocentric approach to ecological knowledge and awareness. A small group of students of an environmental education course at a university pedagogical department participated in experiential activities that took place at a treescape, where different kinds and ages of trees grow. The participants interacted with trees through a pedagogical methodology of three stages (silent walk among trees, holistic approach to a tree, and exercising empathy for trees) and reflected on their experiences. The study’s findings capture the different ways that young people experienced trees: (a) trees as friends, (b) trees as self, and (c) the mindfulness of connecting with trees. Encounters among humans and trees have the potential to create places for contemplation on human-nature organic bond and communities for ecocentric learning and action for environmental change.