Developing ecologically conscious macro-models embedded in Gandhi’s educational philosophy for Indian K12 Schooling: a Teacher’s handbook

Abstract

The need for a transformative approach to environmental education has become more pressing as traditional teaching methods often fail to foster deep ecological understanding and sustainable behaviors among students. This handbook was developed to address the disconnect between environmental knowledge and meaningful, action-oriented learning in Indian K-12 education. Drawing on Gandhian educational philosophy, the specific objective of this work is to create immersive, nature-based instructional activities that cultivate ecological consciousness, ecological literacy, and a kinship with nature (ecophily). This handbook not only emphasizes the importance of integrating nature-based pedagogy into the curriculum but also provides practical instructional activities and guidelines. Thus, ensuring that nature becomes an active participant in the learning process, moving beyond being a mere backdrop to serving as a central element of experiential education. The handbook employs ecological macro-models, which are interactive, experiential representations of natural systems. These models engage students directly, allowing them to experience and internalize ecological processes through embodied learning. The design of these activities aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) of India and the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) of India, aiming to provide educators with practical tools that overcome challenges like fragmented integration of environmental education and a reliance on rote learning. This work concludes with guidelines and exemplars for incorporating ecological macro-models in the curriculum to foster lifelong environmental stewardship and holistic education.