An opportunity to rethink academia this year: After a long sleep, the world awakes to a drastically altered state of affairs.
written for greencolumn of science department | published 09 January 2023
The science education team argues and thinks that education may not be a planetary tipping point in the strictest sense. Nevertheless, there is an urgent call for EDUCATION on PLANETARY CONCERNS.
Photo credit to Bullit Marquez
In an impassioned Facebook post, Vidal et al. (2023) assert that education is a global issue and encourage all educators and academics to become involved.
In this context, education is not typically viewed as having the potential to act as a "tipping point," in contrast to the physical and biological systems of the planet. On the other hand, education is one of the most effective ways to significantly mitigate or eliminate environmental problems such as climate change and other environmental concerns. Therefore, although education might not be a planetary tipping point in the most literal sense, it can be essential in addressing and mitigating the challenges faced by the planet [see thought and conclusion below].
When exactly does the planet reach its tipping point? Team added.
The term "planetary tipping point" describes a critical threshold or point of no return in the Earth's systems that, once crossed, can cause abrupt and potentially catastrophic shifts in the planet's climate and ecosystems.
As a result, Vidal and team argued that education might not be a planetary tipping point in the traditional sense. However, education about planetary concerns is desperately needed.
Inter- and trans-disciplinary curriculum alignment is a primary area of concern (given that the world woke up in different environments right after the pandemic and robust emphasis on Industrial Revolution)
In light of the imperative to RElens the competencies as the demand of the world shifts, it is essential that curricula be resilient. Literacy in Climate Change Education (Independent, Government, and NGO Initiatives)
Science education research team:
Joshua Vidal, Mary Joy Llosa Redulla, Kai Sarabusab, Grace Manalo, Meryl Grace Alimpago, Lemuel Ramos, Jay Bergonia, Aston Martin Panganiban Queliza, Lotte Dela Cruz, Mary Dequito, Roan Francisco, Emil John Nazareno, Kevin Pica, Shaira Lyn B. Cumilang. Keir Nathaniel Nasis, Creziel Mercado, Twinkle Tobias (2023) Facebook post. Educator and Academicians Call.