Exploring Our
Ecosystem
This research paper focuses on an interdisciplinary
STEM approach designed to teach ecosystems to
Grade 6 students. By engaging students through
hands-on activities and structured assessments, the
program enhances their critical thinking skills and
fosters deeper engagement with ecological concepts.
Understanding Our Local Ecosystem
The initiative aims to promote environmental awareness and conservation among
students by enhancing their understanding of local ecosystems and their
interrelationships. The program was executed over one week for Class 6 students at The
Doon Valley Public School in Deoband Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, under the guidance of
the CoE Dehradun.
Environmental Awareness Hands-On Learning Target Group
Focus on understanding Real-world observations Class 6 students
local ecosystems. during the initiative. participated in the
project.
Objectives of the Research
Understand Interactions
They will describe
interactions within
Define Ecosystems ecosystems,
2 understanding concepts
Students will define like food chains and webs.
ecosystems and
identify biotic and 1
abiotic components, Appreciate Balance
enhancing their 3 The initiative aims to instill
ecological vocabulary.
an appreciation for
ecosystem balance and
the impact of human
Ecological Study Practice
1 Brainstorming and Research
2 Creating Miniature Ecosystems
Hands-on experience with ecological concepts.
3 Discussions and Sharing Sessions
Reinforcing learning and clarifying doubts.
Methodology Overview
The project utilized inquiry-based and project-based learning to foster collaboration and
hands-on exploration among students. Teachers facilitated the learning process by
guiding and providing essential resources, resulting in a rich integration of science,
geography, and art for a comprehensive educational experience.
Inquiry-based Learning Project-based Learning Integrated Learning
Experience
Encouraging active Fostering collaboration
research by students through hands-on Combining science,
activities geography, and art
Engaging Activities
Activity 2: Food Web
Challenge
Using organism cards,
2 students created food
Activity 1: Building a webs, understanding
Terrarium energy flow and ecological
relationships.
Students designed
ecosystems in jars, 1
observing biotic and Activity 3: Sustainable
abiotic interactions School Garden Design
over time.
Groups designed a garden
3
to support biodiversity,
Evidence-Based Impact
Assessment of Learning Increased Enthusiasm Mindful Behaviors
Measured through Photographs of projects Improved engagement
participation, outcomes, and positive in conservation efforts
and self-reports. testimonials. displayed.
Novelty and Relevance in Ecosystem Education
1 Hands-on Learning 2 Environmental 3 Critical Thinking
This hands-on
Responsibility
learning approach, Understanding The project
tailored to local ecosystems is vital encourages critical
ecosystems, made for addressing thinking about real-
abstract concepts pressing world problems such
relatable and environmental issues, as pollution and
engaging for fostering a sense of habitat degradation.
students. responsibility among
students.
Promoting Inclusivity and Equity
Accommodations for
Disabilities
Accommodations were
2
Accessible Participation made for students with
disabilities, ensuring
The project was
equitable participation.
accessible to all
students, promoting 1
participation among
Collaborative Group Work
diverse groups
regardless of learning Group formations
styles. encouraged collaboration
3
and interaction among
students from different
Future Directions and Sustainability
Project Replication Teacher Training Future Iterations
The project can be Teacher training on Future iterations may
replicated in other inquiry-based learning include digital
schools, requiring basic will aid in successful documentation tools
materials and access to implementation across and expert interactions
local ecosystems for various educational to enhance the learning
effective learning. contexts. experience further.
Conclusion and Feedback
Effective Engagement Expansion Plans Welcoming Feedback
This STEM-based
Plans for expanding the Feedback is welcomed to
initiative effectively
project involve exploring improve future projects
engaged students in
diverse ecosystems and and enhance student
understanding
involving students in learning experiences.
ecosystems through
conservation efforts.
practical activities.
