Κυπριακό Κέντρο Περιβαλλοντικής Έρευνας & Εκπαίδευσης – Κυκπεε
This daylong program is based on a sequence of activities that give emphasis both on theoretical and practical aspects as well as on the aspects of the expression and evaluation. It is organized in such a way that supports the conceptual development of students on both environmental concepts and issues and at the same time, its design enables a smooth transition from the simple to the complex, from the familiar to the unfamiliar and from the easiest to the most difficult.
1. The nature is our home.
Students are gathered into a special screening room where they have the opportunity to watch an excellent eco-documentary entitled Akrotiri Peninsula – An Environmental Tour created by the CYCERE as an introduction to its programs.
Through an interactive discussion concepts related with the ecosystems are highlighted and are discussed. In addition, the role and the functions of the ecosystems are considered into the framework of the culture and the human societies. The emphasis of the program is focused on ecosystems of the Akrotiri peninsula. The pressures and the threats that these ecosystems receive are also considered and the need for conservation through appropriate environmental management practices as well as the adoption of attitudes and behaviors friendly to the environment are also stressed.
2. Study and discover.
Students study and discover the variety of ecosystems that surround them. They are organized in groups and they follow an educational path. They observe, they record, they collect materials and information, they make measurements of biotic and abiotic factors and they notice the structure of the different ecosystems.
3. The ecosystems and the man.
Students are gathered into the ecology laboratory where they organize their data and create models of the ecosystems that have studied. They present their models to their peers, they discuss and they draw conclusions. In addition, students explore the relationship between man and ecosystems. They discover relationships of mutual benefit, effects, problems and they identify the need for sustainable management of ecosystems and in the end they develop positive attitudes and values towards the environment.
4. Expression – Evaluation.
Students participate in artistic activities and in activities of creative expression. At this time, the program is also evaluated.
