Cognitive function/development

Understanding how ecosystems function is a critical element of environmental education. However, learning about ecosystems can be difficult because of the complexity of the relationships between the different ecosystem components. Past research has shown conceptual representations that enable students to organize these relationships may help them develop the necessary reasoning skills to understand complex systems. These conceptual representations may also allow students to bring these skills to other contexts.

Early environmental experiences can help children develop environmental knowledge and concern; support their physical, emotional, and cognitive development; and increase their “naturalistic intelligence”—their ability to recognize and classify parts of nature. The prevalence of environmental education in early childhood education is growing; however, there is a dearth of research on the topic. This paper discusses many of the challenges to conducting research with young children, as well as suggestions for developmentally appropriate research methods.