Greek kindergarten teachers' practice in environmental education: an exploratory study

This article reports on an exploratory study of the existing state of EE practice in the kindergarten schools of the Athens area. The study attempted to establish an overall picture on whether and how kindergarten teachers are involved in the application of EE. The following were examined: the extent of EE application in the kindergarten schools of the chosen area; the level of teachers' preparation from in-service training and self-learning practices; their motives for becoming (or not becoming) involved in EE application; the topics and types of activities through which they implement EE; the types of collaborations they have developed; and from whom they receive support in their work. It is indicated that emphasis should be placed on the systematic in-service training of kindergarten teachers concerning theory as well as practical application of EE. It is also suggested that in-service training should take advantage of self-learning practices and be promoted through distance-learning education structures.