Date of Award
Spring 6-1-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Education
First Advisor
Dr. Courtnie Wolfgang
Second Advisor
Dr. Lucy Spelman
Third Advisor
Dr. Sage Gerson
Abstract
This thesis investigates the potential positive impact of fostering empathy and understanding for the natural world through art education. Through action research, this study examines various teaching approaches, such as incorporating scientific knowledge, employing literature to discuss ecological themes, and engaging in participatory storytelling activities to cultivate empathy among elementary school children. The objective of this thesis is to explore empathy as a potential pathway to encourage children to foster connections with the natural world and develop compassionate traits, attitudes, and behaviors towards nature as they grow. The findings of this study reveal that children exhibit high levels of enthusiasm and interest in discussing ecology and environmental issues, and they possess the capacity to develop nuanced thoughts and opinions about their relationship with the natural world. Additionally, it is observed that this process is more effective when children are provided with the opportunity and space to engage with these topics through age-appropriate activities that facilitate choice, agency, and creative expression.
Recommended Citation
Salim, Jocelyn, "Creative Connections: Building Empathy to Foster Ecoliteracy Through Art Education" (2024). Masters Theses. 1197.
https://digitalcommons.risd.edu/masterstheses/1197
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Included in
Art Education Commons, Community-Based Learning Commons, Environmental Education Commons, Interdisciplinary Arts and Media Commons, Sustainability Commons