Environmental education in the cognitive and socioemotional development of VET students.

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.973532517023

• Palavras-chave: sustainability, vocational education, cognitive development, socioemotional skills, environmental education

• Keywords: sustainability, vocational education, cognitive development, socioemotional skills, environmental education

• Abstract:

  This research delves into the profound impact of integrating sustainability programs within the Vocational Education (VE) curriculum on the cognitive and socioemotional development of students. By immersing students in specific sustainability projects, the study aims to not only deepen their comprehension of sustainability concepts but also to enhance their cognitive abilities, including critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Moreover, the research seeks to cultivate socioemotional competencies such as empathy and self-efficacy through engagement in sustainability initiatives. Drawing on foundational theories from educational and environmental psychology, this study explores the multifaceted benefits of involving students in sustainability endeavors within the VE framework. Through a meticulously designed longitudinal experimental approach, the research distinguishes between a control group adhering to the conventional curriculum and an experimental group exposed to a meticulously crafted three-month environmental education program. Data collection methods encompass a spectrum of observations, cognitive assessments, and socioemotional evaluations conducted at various intervals to evaluate both short-term and enduring effects. This study contributes significantly to the understanding of how sustainability education integrated into VE can holistically nurture student development, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious and socially adept individuals poised to navigate the complexities of the contemporary world.