An Examination of Social Studies Teachers' Views on Environmental Education Themed Activities in Textbooks

This study aims to examine teachers' views on environmental education themed activities in social studies textbooks. The study was conducted using a basic qualitative research design, and data were collected through a semi-structured interview form prepared by the researchers. The study group consists of 17 social studies teachers who agreed to participate voluntarily in the 2023-2024 academic year in Mersin province. The data were analyzed using content analysis, presented in tables according to themes and sub-themes, and interpreted. As a result of the study, teachers expressed that the environmental education-themed activities in the textbooks were insufficient. Teachers stated that the activities in the textbooks should be updated in accordance with the principle of learning by doing, student level, and the principle of near to far, and that the number of activities should be increased. Additionally, they indicated that they implemented alternative activities such as environmental cleaning work, afforestation activities, zero waste and recycling activities, showing documentaries and videos about the environment, field trips for environmental awareness, and value teaching activities. Based on these results, it can be recommended to increase the number of activities in the textbooks and update them by considering teachers' opinions.