Introduction to and Consideration of Learning about the Oriental White Stork as 'Local Education' in Toyooka, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan

Abstract

  This research focuses on “Learning about the Oriental White Stork,” which is one of the themes for “Local Education” introduced in Toyooka, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan in FY2017, and verifying its effect. As indicators, environmental education (white stork), Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), and local education (Toyooka City) were selected. The target of this research was all fifth-grade students and their teachers in 29 elementary schools in the city. Questionnaire surveys were used as the means for gathering information. Regarding the children, though the recognition level of the white stork improved, there was no change in ESD and positive recognition of Toyooka City decreased. In the questionnaire to the teachers, it was found that learning about the white stork was based on investigative learning in the classroom, and teachers utilized guest speakers and/or supplementary reading. The questionnaire to the teachers showed that children should acquire more attachment to and pride for Toyooka City than becoming more knowledgeable of the white stork itself. However, it was found that this expectation was not backed by the results of the questionnaire given to the children. In summary, in the future, increasing ESD and local learning should be considered for learning about the white stork.