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Raising Ecological Awareness and Digital Literacy in Primary School Children through Gamification

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  • María-Carmen Ricoy

    (Department of Didactics, Faculty of Education and Social Work, School Organization and Research Methods, Universidade de Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain)

  • Cristina Sánchez-Martínez

    (Department of Didactics, Faculty of Education and Social Work, School Organization and Research Methods, Universidade de Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain)

Abstract

Environmental education, at least in northwest Spain, is often overlooked in the education system from infant schooling onwards and interventions are needed to raise the profile of this subject. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of a learning program designed for primary school students to broaden their ecological awareness and improve digital literacy using gamification tools. The research was developed using a qualitative approach, with data obtained from 156 subjects, including teachers, students and families. The results show that the children assimilated new habits on the better usage of water and electricity and recycling paper and plastic. Moreover, they acquired more efficient strategies for finding information online, by using apps and developing content with digital tools. Gaming dynamics and resources were the key to students’ learning, with the tablet proving an essential tool for boosting motivation, interaction and problem solving.

Suggested Citation

  • María-Carmen Ricoy & Cristina Sánchez-Martínez, 2022. "Raising Ecological Awareness and Digital Literacy in Primary School Children through Gamification," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(3), pages 1-19, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:3:p:1149-:d:729394
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Maria Laura Ruiu & Gabriele Ruiu & Massimo Ragnedda & Felice Addeo, 2024. "Exploring Digital-Environment Habitus in Italy—How Digital Practices Reflect Users’ Environmental Orientations?," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(12), pages 1-21, June.
    2. Mira Hajj-Hassan & Rawad Chaker & Anne-Marie Cederqvist, 2024. "Environmental Education: A Systematic Review on the Use of Digital Tools for Fostering Sustainability Awareness," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(9), pages 1-24, April.

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