Assessing the Impact of Experiential Learning in Promoting Environmental Education and Sustainable Practices

This study investigates the effectiveness of experiential teaching and learning methods in enhancing environmental education among 2nd-grade students in Hyderabad, India. Utilizing a mixedmethods approach, this quasi-experimental study involved 30 students from two schools managed by different organizations. The intervention group engaged in experiential learning activities designed to improve their understanding of environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. Pre-test and post-test assessments, along with qualitative data from interviews, focus group discussions, and observations, were used. Quantitative analysis revealed significant improvements in post-test scores among students exposed to experiential learning compared to those following traditional methods. The mean pretest score of 9.97 increased to 16.80 in the post-test, indicating a notable enhancement in environmental knowledge. Qualitative data supported these findings, showing increased student engagement and critical thinking regarding environmental issues. The study demonstrates that experiential learning effectively fosters environmental awareness and sustainable practices among young students. The positive correlation between experiential learning interventions and improved educational outcomes highlights the potential for incorporating these methods into broader educational curricula to address environmental challenges comprehensively.