Ecopedagogical approaches to language learning and cultivating eco-conscious learners

This paper explores how integrating ecological philosophy and ecolinguistics within teaching strategies can shape learners' attitudes toward the environment and enhance language learning. The project "In Your Own Backyard" involves English language learners in tasks that connect learning with nature. Learner-generated texts are created and analyzed using Ecolinguistic Discourse Analysis (EDA) to classify them as ecologically beneficial, ambivalent, or destructive. Learners also participate in student-led discourse analysis to evaluate these texts. Exploratory findings reveal a significant shift in learners' ecological orientation, with a notable increase in eco-beneficial texts and a decrease in eco-destructive texts. Quantitative data showed improved English proficiency among participants, while qualitative findings highlighted high levels of student satisfaction and engagement. The project demonstrated that integrating ecopedagogy and ecolinguistic discourse analysis in language learning can enhance both environmental awareness and language skills, fostering a deeper connection to nature and critical thinking competencies.