Abstract
Geology and archeology are not generally integrated into environmental education. However, a few studies suggesting the usefulness of teaching geology as part of environmental education have been published since the 1970s. This study empirically examine how geology and archeology, especially field observations of these disciplines contribute to environmental education through data gathered on a study tour of the Kurosaki castle ruins located in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan.
In this study tour, participants observed geological formations, relics, and remains with utter amazement. The tour seemed to be an emotional experience for them. Geological and archeological field observations allowed the participants to review the relationship between environment and human beings with a fresh perspective. This encouraged them to think about the future. Because the participants were awakened to a sublime realization through this physical experience, they were able to imprint strong impressions, akin to primal experiences, firmly in their memories. The study showed that geological and archeological field observations have an educational effect that develops a sense of the time concept in participants. We consider that this effect is characteristic of these two disciplines, and is important for environmental education.
