Environmental Education Centers and Experiential Learning: Views and Opinions of an EEC Director

Abstract

A growing number of theoretical and empirical studies outline the relationship between environmental education and experiential learning. The present short study explores the aforementioned relationship, as reflected in the teaching approaches and practices of an Environmental Education Center (EEC) in northern Greece. A semi-structured interview with the Director of the EEC was chosen for the collection of qualitative data, regarding mainly the methodological characteristics of the Center’s educational programs. Critical analysis of his statements and viewpoints indicates that experiential learning is a primary objective of the EEC’s educational approaches, while it accounts for some of the most significant benefits that primary and secondary school students may gain from participating in the programs. Limitations of the present study and perspectives for further research on experiential learning and its application in the educational activities of the EECs of Greece are discussed.