Supporting Environmental Literacy in English Language Classrooms Worldwide

CLEARWATER, FL | March 15, 2024 – This winter, 40 English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers from 28 countries met virtually with the shared purpose of making climate education accessible to all students.

“Engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds has broadened my perspective and reinforced the importance of global collaboration in addressing climate change,” said Egyptian educator Anan AbdElRahman. “Reflecting on this journey, I am inspired to continue advocating for environmental stewardship and to actively contribute to positive change in my community and beyond.”

The 10-week virtual exchange program, The Climate Action Challenge, ran from January 8 through March 11, and helped participants in building skills to guide their students in developing sustainable solutions to local and global environmental problems. The program was sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Office of English Language Programs through the English Access Scholarship Program (Access), administered by FHI 360, a nonprofit human development organization, and delivered by Take Action Global, a leading climate action education nonprofit.

“The EFL teachers are phenomenal leaders at their schools and in their communities. Through the partnership between FHI 360 and Take Action Global, we have been privileged to facilitate a robust shared learning experience with them focused on taking climate action.” said Riley Justis, Chief Operating Officer, Take Action Global. “By bringing diverse cultures and perspectives together, we better position each individual teacher to make an even greater impact in their learning communities.” 

At the closing ceremony on March 11, Ms. Jacquie Gardy, Content Editor and Virtual Exchange Specialist at the  Office of English Language Programs congratulated the participants. “I am thrilled to be witnessing this event today and to join in to congratulate all of you for your hard work and dedication. We thank you for your contributions, creativity, and willingness to try innovative approaches in English language instruction.”

Through collaborative activities and experiential learning, the EFL teachers have exchanged ideas for incorporating environmental literacy into their English language classrooms. Participants also have been engaged in activities designed to enhance their understanding of U.S. culture and values and increase mutual understanding across cultures. The program has sought to enhance teachers’ knowledge and skills in using interactive educational technology by highlighting and modeling best practices in virtual engagement and inclusive facilitation. By using a Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach, teachers have actively engaged with facilitators and each other to develop a final project that is meaningful to their own communities. 

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunity to connect with passionate Access teachers from around the globe who share a common goal, said Pakistani educator Anam Ikhtiar. “This exchange has brought the world to me and my Access students. The friendships formed and the lessons learned will forever stay with me.”