We spoke with Professor Angela James, an expert in science education at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, who shared her insights on climate education and community engagement. Her passion and dedication to education clearly come through in this interview.
Professor James shares her approach of using three core principles: learning, sharing and growing together. These principles form the foundation of her educational strategy, focusing not just on the impact but on engagement and collaboration with others. "It’s not about effecting change but about working together with change," James explains. Interacting with students and witnessing their growth and development continues to motivate her.
She points out the importance of connecting abstract concepts to tangible realities. For example, talking about extreme weather conditions and rising sea levels instead of just 'climate change'. "People are tired of hearing about climate change, but if you talk about visible, tangible effects, you make it real for them," she said.
James provides examples from her work where she organised field trips for teachers who had never seen an ecosystem up close. These experiences changed their perspective on education and gave them new ideas on how to enrich their lessons. "It’s the experience that counts," she says. Through these excursions, teachers gained a better understanding of how to engage their students with nature and environmental issues.
Climate Education: Practical Knowledge and Engagement
Professor James emphasises the importance of practical wisdom in teaching complex subjects like climate change. She explains how essential it is to listen to the experiences and theories of others. "Everyone has a theory about the things around them and we must value people for what they know, what they can do and what they share," she says. It's about using relevant, simple and sincere communication to convey the message.Professor James shares her approach of using three core principles: learning, sharing and growing together. These principles form the foundation of her educational strategy, focusing not just on the impact but on engagement and collaboration with others. "It’s not about effecting change but about working together with change," James explains. Interacting with students and witnessing their growth and development continues to motivate her.
The Role of Teachers as Change Agents
In her discussion, James highlights the crucial role of teachers in bringing about change. She sees teachers as change agents who can influence not only their students but also their broader environment. "How do we do the best for everyone?" she asks rhetorically. It's about activating individuals to start with simple, practical actions that lead to larger changes.She points out the importance of connecting abstract concepts to tangible realities. For example, talking about extreme weather conditions and rising sea levels instead of just 'climate change'. "People are tired of hearing about climate change, but if you talk about visible, tangible effects, you make it real for them," she said.
James provides examples from her work where she organised field trips for teachers who had never seen an ecosystem up close. These experiences changed their perspective on education and gave them new ideas on how to enrich their lessons. "It’s the experience that counts," she says. Through these excursions, teachers gained a better understanding of how to engage their students with nature and environmental issues.
